"I won't watch too much": Uncapped Australian batter's interesting take on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of BGT 2024-25 4th Test
Young Australian opener Sam Konstas has offered an interesting take ahead of potentially facing the world-class Jasprit Bumrah in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The 19-year-old has asserted that he won't overthink the challenge of facing the right-arm speedster and wishes to keep things simple.
With Australia's top-order short of runs, the selectors made changes to the squad by dropping Nathan McSweeney, who managed only 72 runs in three Tests. Konstas is likely to open with Usman Khawaja at the MCG, which is expected to have a crowd of over 90,000 for the massive occasion.
Speaking to reporters, the right-hander said he is quite confident of his skills, having done the hard yards over the years to hone it. Like several aspiring Aussie cricketers, the youngster said it's his dream to don the Baggy Green, stating, as quoted by Perth Now:
"I won't watch too much (of him). I have already seen him a lot. But I am excited to challenge myself and face him. Usually, our analysts do a little feedback on each bowler. I might read that, maybe. I'm super confident. Just backing my skills, I have done all the hard work. Just another game, I guess, and trying to keep it simple. As a kid you have always dreamt of the moment, and it is very rare, getting your baggy green. So it's a huge honour if I do get in."
The New South Welshman was on Australia's radar before the series but missed out on selection. However, he elevated his case during the pink-ball warm-up match against India by scoring a ton for the Prime Minister's XI.
"I can't wait to have them in Melbourne for support" - Sam Konstas ahead of his potential Australia debut
Konstas remarked that he had flashes of his journey as a youngster when his family thoroughly supported him in making his career and is glad to see their efforts pay off. He added:
"It was all a bit unexpected, but very privileged to get the opportunity. I just had dinner with the family (to celebrate), pretty chilled. It was emotional, mum was crying ... Everything has happened so fast. Mum and dad and my brothers, all their sacrifices, taking me to training, throwing me balls, experiencing the journey through highs and lows. Just to give something back to them was very special. I can't wait to have them in Melbourne for support."
The Test series between India and Australia is locked at 1-1.