Australian opener Sam Konstas played down his on-field clash with Virat Kohli during Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas stated that Kohli accidentally bumped into him, adding that the incident motivated him and fired him for his debut innings.
Virat and Konstas were involved in a heated altercation at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday 26 December. The incident unfolded after the 10th over when Kohli appeared to deliberately bump into the 19-year-old opener, who had been playing aggressively. against India's bowlers.
I think Virat Kohli accidentally hit me – Sam Konstas
Speaking after the first day's play, Sam Konstas revealed that he was simply adjusting his gloves when Kohli accidentally bumped into him. Konstas said the tension was just part of the game and he focused on giving his best. He added that he got the best out of him.
“I was just doing my gloves. I think he hit me by mistake. I think that's just cricket, just tension,” Konstas told the media.
“For me, I was just trying to get into the contest. I was just trying to bring the best version of myself against whoever I was facing. He got hot sometimes, that's fine by me. I feel he is bringing the best out of me. I hope he continues in the coming innings,” he added.
Sam Konstas sets the record for most runs against Jasprit Bumrah in the opening spell
Kohli faced criticism from former cricketers including Ricky Ponting for his behavior during the match. There was speculation that Kohli was handed a one-match ban for intentional physical contact with Sam Konstas. However, he avoided suspension and was fined 20% of his match fee.
Following the altercation with Virat Kohli, Sam Konstas took on Jasprit Bumrah. Konstas scored 18 runs, including two fours and a six, in the 11th over. Overall, Konstas hit 34 runs in Bumrah's first spell, setting a record for the most runs scored by a batsman against a bowler in an opening spell in Tests.
I was trying to keep my head still and watch the ball – Sam Konstas
Konstas revealed that his ramp shots against Jasprit Bumrah were premeditated to disrupt the bowler's rhythm. He admitted that facing Bumrah for the first time was a challenge, but he adapted to the wicket and Bumrah's unique action, which helped him execute some successful shots.
“I think I was getting used to the wicket. It was my first time against him. I was getting used to his action. He hit me a few times, I was lucky to get away with a few. But, it was a great contest,” he said Konstas.
“Yes, definitely premeditated. But, I tried to keep my head still and watch the ball until it came off my bat. I went a few today,” he added.
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