Sam Konstas’ second Test innings pulls the veil on India’s strategic focus

·

Sam Konstas’ second innings in Test cricket was less dramatic than his first, but it underscored two key points: India is now clearly targeting him, and they respect him enough to adjust their tactics.

Konstas was dismissed by a brilliant delivery from Jasprit Bumrah, who pitched a stump-seeking missile that seamed back slightly to hit the top of off-stump. This type of ball, previously used by junior teams to target Konstas, has now proved successful, and India is likely to try it again in the final Test in Sydney.

Bumrah celebrated the wicket with unusual boisterousness, urging Indian fans to cheer as if he had dismissed a top player like Steve Smith. This was likely a response to Konstas, who had earlier treated Bumrah with “humbling disdain” in the first innings.

Bumrah’s theatrical celebration seemed to mock Konstas’ recent exuberance with the crowd, highlighting how much the young player has gotten under India’s skin.

Photo: Getty Images.

Despite the dismissal, Konstas demonstrated the fearless approach that has made him stand out. India adjusted their field to cover his ramp shot, forcing him to adopt a more conventional style.

Konstas had faced 41 balls from Bumrah in the Test, scoring 35 runs, but with 18 false shots—one roughly every two balls. This was reminiscent of David Warner’s struggles against Stuart Broad in 2019, where Warner also had a high number of false shots.

With his fearless play and growing prominence, Konstas will need to be both brave and talented to continue his rise in Test cricket. All eyes will be on him in Sydney, where anything could happen.

Source: The Advertiser.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The Greek Herald finalists lead the way in 2025 Greek International Women Awards

The Greek Herald’s own Dimitra Skalkos and Andriana Simos are finalists in the 2025 Greek International Women Awards.

Football Victoria honours South Melbourne FC legend Michalis Mandalis

The new Football Victoria Chair Angela Williams paid tribute to former footballer and long-time South Melbourne FC legend Michalis Mandalis.

Greek Orthodox community in Liverpool raises $20,000 for McGrath Foundation

The spirit of faith, community and compassion was on full display at the “Splash of Pink” charity afternoon tea.

WWII-era rifle used in Croydon Park shooting sparks firearm law debate

A WWII-era M1 Carbine rifle has become the focus of investigations into the Croydon Park shooting. Read more here.

PASOK intensifies pressure for reopening of GNTO Office in Melbourne

Pressure on Greece's Ministry of Tourism to reopen the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) Office in Melbourne is intensifying.

You May Also Like

Victorians line up to get vaccinated at hall of St George Greek Orthodox church in Thornbury

Greek Community of Melbourne successfully launched a pop-up vaccination hub at the hall of its Greek Orthodox Church of St George.

Nelly’s: World-renowned Greek photographer

Nelly's was a Greek female photographer whose pictures helped shaped the visual image of Greece in the Western mind.

Kyrgios confident ahead of ‘battle of the sexes’ against Sabalenka

Nick Kyrgios has declared he won’t need to “try 100 per cent” to beat world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in a planned “battle of the sexes” match.