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Sam Konstas Shines With Century In Warm-Up Game

 

Nineteen-year-old Sam Konstas showcased his potential as he auditioned for the second Test against India with a stunning century in the warm-up match for the Australia Prime Minister’s XI. Played at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on December 1, the game was a pink-ball contest that offered Konstas a chance to prove his mettle against India’s formidable pace attack.

Opening with Matt Renshaw, Konstas displayed poise and precision, reaching his hundred off just 90 deliveries. His impressive knock, featuring 14 boundaries and a six, was a highlight of the rain-affected game, which was reduced to 46 overs per side.

Gritty Partnerships Anchor Australia PM XI

After Day 1 was washed out, Day 2 saw India opting to bowl first in overcast conditions. Akash Deep’s early strikes reduced the Australians to 9 for 2, dismissing Renshaw and Jayden Goodwin cheaply. However, Konstas, alongside Jack Clayton, staged a strong comeback with a vital 109-run partnership for the third wicket.

Clayton contributed 40 runs before falling to Harshit Rana, but Konstas continued his stellar innings, eventually scoring 107 off 97 balls. Another crucial stand of 67 runs with Hanno Jacobs, who chipped in with 61, helped Australia Prime Minister’s XI post a competitive total of 240 in 43.2 overs.

Harshit Rana Impresses with the Ball

India’s bowlers had mixed fortunes in the practice match, with pacer Harshit Rana stealing the spotlight. Rana dismantled the middle order with a four-wicket haul, claiming figures of 4/44 in six overs. He dismissed key batters such as Clayton, Oliver Davies, and Sam Harper, showcasing his skill with the pink ball.

Akash Deep provided early breakthroughs, and Mohammed Siraj along with Prasidh Krishna chipped in with a wicket each. Despite their efforts, Konstas’ resilient innings underlined the depth of Australia’s young talent, setting the stage for an intriguing Test series.


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