Making his international debut on Thursday, Australian opener Sam Konstas captured attention with an impressive innings of 60 runs from 65 balls, achieving a strike rate of 92.31. The 19-year-old was brought in to replace Nathan McSweeney for the final two Tests against India, a decision that faced criticism from some quarters, who believed McSweeney was unfairly made a scapegoat.

In the initial three Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, McSweeney, along with opener Usman Khawaja and number three batter Marnus Labuschagne, struggled significantly, particularly against pacer Jasprit Bumrah, collectively managing a strike rate of just 19.07 against the Indian Test vice-captain.

In contrast, Konstas adopted a more aggressive approach when facing Bumrah. Unlike Khawaja, McSweeney, and Labuschagne, who focused on mere survival against the fast bowler, Konstas attempted to take the initiative in the second over, unsuccessfully trying to ramp a delivery over the slip cordon with a reverse scoop. Following that misstep, he regained his composure and displayed a variety of shots. By the seventh over, he successfully ramped Bumrah three times, one of which resulted in a boundary, suggesting that the Mumbai Indians star was beginning to lose his effectiveness in Melbourne. Subsequently, India’s captain Rohit Sharma repositioned his third slip to deep third. In Bumrah’s next over, however, Konstas edged a delivery to slip, prompting Kohli to dive in an effort to prevent a run.

Michael Vaughan discusses the comparison between Jasprit Bumrah and Sam Konstas

In an interview with foxsports.com.au, former England cricketer Michael Vaughan analyzed Konstas' performance, describing it as a 'risky approach.' He remarked, “It’s quite a sensible shot. I know that sounds mad, but if the ball is nipping around, what do you want to do? Play with a straight bat?”

Vaughan noted that it was the first instance he had observed Jasprit Bumrah employing yorkers and slower deliveries within the initial six overs of his opening spell on the first day of a Test match.

“This was necessary as he needed to think creatively. The reverse ramp and the ramp shots he attempted initially had the crowd reacting with excitement, but they were less enthusiastic when he played and missed,” he explained.

He further commented on the contrast in playing styles, stating, “It’s a very different approach for us, I guess, who were brought up playing in the 80s and 90s. I guess you would say it’s a risky approach.”

Konstas' performance was crucial, providing a solid foundation for the other Australian batsmen. Khawaja scored 57 runs off 121 balls, while Labuschagne contributed 72 runs off 145 balls. Steve Smith (68*) and Pat Cummins (8*) remained not out as Australia concluded Day 1 of the fourth Test at 311/6.

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