Thu Dec 26 00:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Aussie Teen Sensation Konstas Stuns India on Boxing Day

**Melbourne, Australia:** A stunning 60 from 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas rocked India on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test, setting Australia up for a dominant start. Konstas, employing audacious reverse scoops and aggressive off-side hitting, completely unsettled India’s pace attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah.

Konstas’s innovative approach, including thrice connecting with reverse scoops in a single over – including Bumrah’s first six in the format since 2021 – forced the Indian captain to change his bowling strategy. The youngster’s 34 runs off Bumrah’s first six overs included two sixes, allowing senior batsman Usman Khawaja to settle in.

Konstas’s innings, which included eight boundaries, ended on 60 when he was LBW to Ravindra Jadeja, but not before he had shattered the rhythm of the Indian attack and laid the foundation for a strong Australian opening partnership. He became Australia’s second-youngest Test half-centurion, reaching the milestone in just 52 balls.

At stumps, Australia were comfortably placed at 112/1, with Khawaja on 38* and the innings firmly under their control. India’s decision to include Washington Sundar at the expense of Shubman Gill appears to have backfired, leaving them with a mountain to climb on day two.

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