“Turn the stump mics on” - Australia pacer’s quirky advice to Sam Konstas ahead of debut in BGT 2024-25 4th Test
Australia pacer Sean Abbott remarked that fans can expect much more from Sam Konstas than this batting when he takes the field in Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test against India. The emerging batter is in line for a debut after replacing Nathan McSweeney in the squad midway through the Border-Gavaskar series.
Konstas was rewarded with a call-up after maintaining his consistent run across formats with a spirited approach. The selectors were in search of a batter with a positive approach of run-scoring, a criteria which McSweeney failed to execute in his first three Test appearances.
Abbott shed light on Konstas' chirpy nature while fielding at short leg, and claimed that one can expect some solid banter from him against the opposition batters.
“I’ve really enjoyed my short dealings with him … my time with him in the Shield game here a couple of weeks ago. What I will say is if he gets the chance to play, turn the stump mics up when he’s in at short leg, because he’s got some good bants," Abbott told reporters ahead of the Boxing Day Test (via news.com.au).
“Just getting into blokes about being scared, as I would’ve been as well if Starcy (Mitchell Starc) was about to bowl short … doesn’t matter if it was Rohit (Sharma) or me batting there, he would be exactly the same," Abbott added.
The Australian contingent is not short of loud figures on the field. The likes of Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan Lyon are always a constant presence on the stump mic, while the Indian unit also comprises members who are no strangers to banter.
"I’m not going to say what it is" - Sam Konstas on plans against Jasprit Bumrah
Konstas is on the verge of being the fourth youngest Test debutant in Australian cricket history. The opening batter was fast-tracked into the side after making an early impression in the 2024 U-19 World Cup in South Africa.
Australia are in search of some response against Jasprit Bumrah's early barrage with the new ball, which has pinned them back in all three matches so far.
“I do (have a plan for Jasprit Bumrah) … I’m not going to say what it is, but just trying to put pressure back on the bowlers. I think it’s just another day for me, obviously it’s a bit more special, I’ve got my parents coming. Pretty simple, just back myself and see ball, hit ball really," Konstas said
The fourth Test between India and Australia is scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, in Melbourne. The series is currently level at 1-1 with two matches to go.