The 19-year-old Sam Konstas produced a breathtaking century on Sunday in the Australian PM XI’s match against India in Canberra. Opening the batting for Australia, Konstas took the attack to India’s bowlers, playing predominantly through the leg side. Despite losing wickets at the other end, he stood firm and played an aggressive knock to help his team get back on track.
Mastering The Pink Ball
The young opener, who had been talked about as a potential replacement for David Warner before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, showed his class against the pink ball. After a tough start, Konstas took control of the innings, especially against Indian pacers Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna. His century came off just 90 balls, including 14 boundaries and a six, showing his ability to dominate even in tough conditions.
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Building Partnerships And Steady Innings
After the testing opening innings, Konstas gained his composure with Clayton and further added more than 100 runs to the Australia’s total. However, soon after, Australia lost a couple of wickets but Konstas continued to attack for his team, which had kept them in control with his partnership with Clayton helped in stabilizing the innings and providing a substantial base.
A Magnificent Century By Konstas
Konstas’ sparkling knock ended at 107 off 97 balls in the 38th over, leaving Australia at 205 runs. His century was the highlight of the day, as he anchored the innings amid a flurry of wickets falling around him. Konstas was Australia’s 78th wicket to fall, leaving his mark on the match.
Another ton for Sam Konstas! 🔥
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 1, 2024
A sublime knock by the teenager against India #PMXIvIND pic.twitter.com/hZOnuRYbB8
A New Rising Star For Australia
Despite having played only five first-class matches, Konstas was included in the Australian PM XI for their tour matches against India. His selection was mainly based on his impressive performances, which include a twin-century performance against South Australia in the Sheffield Shield. In the U-19 World Cup, 2023 Konstas put up a remarkable show as he scored 191 runs in 7 matches.
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Can Sam Konstas Replace Nathan McSweeney?
Australia had chosen Nathan McSweeney to open in the first two Tests, but Nathan McSweeney’s collapse in the Perth Test makes Konstas’ prospects bright. With his brilliant showing in the PM XI match, Konstas is emerging as a potential candidate for the series, and the cricketing world is eager to see him grow.
