Ravi Shastri’s Advice to Australia’s Sam Konstas: Focus on Strengths and Play Your Game

19-Year-Old Konstas Impresses on Test Debut with Swashbuckling Knock Against India at the MCG

New Delhi, January 9: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has offered valuable advice to young Australian opener Sam Konstas, urging him to focus on his strengths and play his natural game.

Konstas made headlines with a memorable Test debut during the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where the 19-year-old fearlessly took on India’s formidable bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah.

A Debut to Remember

Stepping onto the field amidst a sold-out crowd, Konstas showcased remarkable confidence. Facing Bumrah, one of the world’s best fast bowlers, Konstas stunned everyone by executing a perfectly timed ramp shot over wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant for a six, igniting celebrations among the Australian fans.

His fearless approach and powerful strokes left the Indian bowlers, including Bumrah, momentarily flustered. Konstas’ swashbuckling 60-run knock, filled with aggressive intent, became the foundation for an unforgettable debut performance.

Ravi Shastri’s Insights

Reflecting on Konstas’ debut, Shastri praised the young batter’s determination but also emphasized the importance of focusing on consistency and runs:
“He flustered India, there’s no doubt about that, in Melbourne. My advice to him would be, ‘you’ve got talent, so the focus should be on scoring runs more than anything else.’ You focus on your strengths. You play the way you want,” Shastri said on The ICC Review.

Shastri described Konstas’ performance as an embodiment of youthful exuberance and noted his ability to back up pre-match talk with action:
“He was like a cat on a hot tin roof. He wanted to announce himself straight away, and he did just that. He walked the talk.”

A Learning Curve Ahead

Konstas’ thrilling debut ended when Ravindra Jadeja trapped him LBW, exposing his vulnerability against spin. However, his aggressive innings earned him a spot in the Australian squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka Test series.

Shastri believes that playing overseas will be a crucial learning experience for Konstas:
“The tour of Sri Lanka will help him mature. Playing outside Australia, especially in different conditions, will teach him a lot and refine his game.”

Looking Ahead

With his fearless batting style and ability to perform under pressure, Konstas has already caught the eye of selectors and cricket fans. As he prepares for the Sri Lanka series, the journey ahead promises to test his adaptability and mental resilience.

Konstas’ debut serves as a reminder of the excitement young talent can bring to the sport, and under guidance like Shastri’s, he seems well-positioned to make a mark in international cricket.