Australian cricketer Sam Konstas' aggressive antics during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy have drawn comparisons to a young Virat Kohli from none other than legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar. Despite making a strong statement with his bat, Konstas' in-your-face behavior on the field has riled up the Indian players and fans, with his mentor Shane Watson also expressing surprise at the youngster's attitude. Gavaskar believes Konstas' behavior is reminiscent of a young Kohli who was unapologetic and provocative on his trips to Australia, eventually earning respect with his impressive performances.
Sam Konstas: Australia's Answer to Virat Kohli
Australian cricket fans have a new hero in Sam Konstas, a rising star who is making waves in the domestic circuit. Konstas' aggressive antics during the recently concluded 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy have drawn comparisons to a young Virat Kohli, one of the most formidable batters in the game.
Konstas' on-field behavior has not gone unnoticed by Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar believes Konstas' attitude is reminiscent of a young Kohli, who was known for his unapologetic and provocative approach on his early trips to Australia. However, Konstas' mentor, Shane Watson, has expressed surprise at the youngster's attitude.
Konstas' Rise to Prominence
Sam Konstas made his first-class debut for Victoria in 2021 and quickly caught the attention of selectors with his aggressive batting style. He was part of Australia's Under-19 World Cup winning squad in 2023 and made his Test debut against India in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
During the series, Konstas made a strong statement with his bat, scoring a half-century in the first Test in Nagpur. However, it was his in-your-face behavior on the field that riled up the Indian players and fans. Konstas was seen sledging his opponents and engaging in verbal altercations with the umpire.
Gavaskar's Comparison to Kohli
Sunil Gavaskar, who witnessed Kohli's rise to stardom, believes Konstas' behavior is reminiscent of a young Kohli. In a recent interview, Gavaskar said, "Konstas is a feisty character on and off the field, just like Kohli was when he first came to Australia. He's not afraid to show his emotions and he's not afraid to back himself."
Gavaskar also noted that Kohli's aggressive antics eventually earned him respect with his impressive performances. He believes Konstas has the potential to do the same.
Watson's Surprise
Shane Watson, who played alongside Kohli in the Indian Premier League, has expressed surprise at Konstas' aggressive approach. Watson said, "I'm a bit surprised by Konstas' attitude. I know he's a young player and he wants to make a statement, but I don't think sledging and arguing with the umpire is the way to go."
Watson believes Konstas needs to focus on his cricket and let his bat do the talking.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is Sam Konstas? Sam Konstas is a rising Australian cricketer who made his Test debut in 2024.
2. Why is Konstas being compared to Virat Kohli? Sunil Gavaskar believes Konstas' aggressive antics on the field are reminiscent of a young Virat Kohli.
3. What is Konstas' batting style? Konstas is an aggressive batter who likes to dominate the bowlers.
4. What is Shane Watson's opinion on Konstas' behavior? Watson has expressed surprise at Konstas' aggressive approach and believes he should focus on his cricket.
5. Has Konstas drawn any criticism for his behavior? Konstas' in-your-face behavior has riled up Indian players and fans, and some critics believe it is unbecoming of a young player.
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