The cricketing world is still buzzing from the electrifying Test debut of 19-year-old Sam Konstas in the thrilling fourth Test between Australia and India at the MCG. The young opener’s aggressive style and infectious energy caught everyone by surprise, not least his own teammates. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey admitted he felt like one of the 90,000 awestruck spectators as he watched Konstas take on India’s feared attack.
“At times, I couldn’t watch it, at times I was cheering, but just the energy he bought it was something different, I probably wasn’t expecting that amount of difference,” Carey revealed. “He plays a style of cricket that was probably new to India as well.”
A Debut to Remember
Konstas set the tone early with a rapid 60 in the first innings, taking on star quick Jasprit Bumrah with an array of inventive shots. His presence at short leg as Australia sealed a famous last-hour victory on day five was equally impactful. The debutant’s chirpy demeanor and crowd interactions brought a new dimension to the team.
“He’s 19, he loves his cricket, he just brings a different energy that I think this team hasn’t really seen for a little while.”
– Alex Carey on Sam Konstas
Not a One-Trick Pony
However, Carey cautioned not to expect the same fireworks every innings from the precocious talent, who is over a decade younger than his nearest teammate. Konstas fell to Bumrah in the second dig, showing there is still much to learn at the highest level.
“I don’t think that’s the blueprint every Test match, but to be able to throw a few punches early, get a bit of momentum for us, which I guess the opening partnership was probably just lacking that intensity,” Carey noted.
Starc to Push Through Pain
While young gun Konstas has been the talk of the town, veteran quick Mitchell Starc faces a fitness battle after suffering rib pain during his heroics in Melbourne. But Carey backed his long-time teammate to take his place for the series decider.
“He’ll push through,” Carey assured. “I’ve played with Starcy for a long time now and he’s one of the toughest cricketers I’ve played with, so he’ll grimace, he’ll grab his ribs no doubt at times, but he’ll be ready for the contest.”
Marsh Under Pressure
The other major selection dilemma is the form of all-rounder Mitch Marsh. Despite speculation that Tasmanian Beau Webster could earn a call-up, Carey threw his support behind the incumbent to rise to the occasion like Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith have this series.
“Whenever we’ve put someone in the spotlight, the true Aussie way is to show them how good they are, so I think it’s Mitch’s time.”
– Alex Carey backing Mitch Marsh
The Decider Awaits
With the series locked at 2-2 and the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy on the line, all eyes will be on the SCG to see if Konstas can continue his fairytale start and whether Australia’s wounded warriors can deliver when it matters most. India need nothing less than victory to retain the silverware they have held since 2017.
One thing is for certain – if Konstas and company can bottle the magic of Melbourne and bring that fearless energy to Sydney, we are in for a New Year’s Test for the ages. The cricket world waits with bated breath.
