AUS vs IND 2024-25: Sam Konstas' revelation of favourite Indian player goes viral after historic debut at MCG

Nineteen-year-old Sam Konstas made an impressive debut for Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against India. While his sublime half-century and aggressive approach earned him huge praise, it was his off-field revelation naming Virat Kohli as his all-time favorite Indian cricketer that went viral.

Konstas was brought into the Australian playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, replacing Nathan McSweeney, who had struggled against India’s bowling attack in the first three Tests. The right-handed opener did not take long to get settled.

Facing the Indian bowling lineup, Konstas played an attacking knock, reaching his maiden Test fifty off just 52 balls, including multiple scoops to the boundary off India's premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah.

After his debut innings, a graphic of the Australian cricketer went viral on social media. Konstas was asked to pick his favorite Indian cricketer and he took Kohli's name. "Virat Kohli. What he does is truly remarkable."

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Sam Kosntas becomes second-youngest Australian to score a Test fifty

Interestingly, midway through the morning session, Konstas had a mid-pitch altercation with Kohli as the two players collided during a break between overs, leading the umpires to intervene.

Walking in under pressure of making debut, the New South Wales-born took on the aggressive approach. His 60 off 65 balls included six boundaries and two sixes,  giving the hosts the perfect start.

His innings ended just before lunch, as he was trapped lbw by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. He became the second-youngest Australian to score a Test fifty, following Ian Craig, who achieved the milestone at 17 years and 239 days.