Sam Konstas, a debutant, made a significant impact on India during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne with his innovative batting style. His bold approach of advancing down the pitch and executing a reverse ramp shot against the renowned bowler Jasprit Bumrah unsettled the Indian side on the first day of the fourth Test match, following Pat Cummins' decision to bat first. This display of confidence was so striking that it provoked Virat Kohli, who collided with the 19-year-old right-handed batsman.

The incident transpired as the players were transitioning after the 10th over. After scoring a single off the final delivery from Mohammed Siraj, Konstas removed his gloves and began walking towards his batting partner, Usman Khawaja, at the opposite end. Kohli, having picked up the ball, moved deliberately towards Konstas. Both players maintained their paths, resulting in a collision.

Following the encounter, Kohli turned back and exchanged a few words with Konstas, who responded in kind. Khawaja quickly recognized the escalating tension and intervened by placing his arm around Kohli. The on-field umpires also engaged in a discussion with both Kohli and Konstas to address the situation.

Vaughan, Ponting not happy with Kohli

Former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed confidence that the match referee would certainly investigate the incident. He remarked that it was an action that Kohli would not reflect upon with pride. "Konstas was proceeding in his direction. Observe Virat; he has altered his path. Virat is an all-time great with extensive experience. He will likely think, 'What prompted me to act this way?'" Vaughan stated during the commentary.

"Indeed, he would," Vaughan affirmed when questioned about whether match referee Andy Pycroft would address the issue.

Renowned Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting was unequivocal in attributing the fault to Kohli. "Consider the path Virat took. He has moved an entire pitch to his right, instigating that confrontation. There is no doubt in my mind whatsoever," he asserted.

The incident had no effect on Konstas, who responded by hitting Bumrah for a six and two fours in the subsequent over. The young player from New South Wales achieved his first half-century on debut in just 52 balls. He displayed a fearless approach against Bumrah, striking the world's top bowler for four fours and two sixes.

Konstas was eventually dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, who bowled him out in the 20th over for a score of 60 off 65 balls. By that point, he had already succeeded in unsettling India's new ball bowlers, particularly Bumrah.

Having replaced Nathan McSweeney in the lineup, Konstas is now recognized as Australia's fourth youngest debutant in Test cricket. He is the youngest since the current captain, Pat Cummins, who debuted in 2011 at the age of 18 years and 193 days.

Read Also: Sam Konstas Eager for Round 2 Against Bumrah

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!