“It was a disgraceful act” - Australian coach slams Team India over Sam Konstas controversy in BGT 2024-25 5th Test

New South Wales head coach Greg Shipperd termed Team India's wild celebration in front of Sam Konstas at the end of Day 1 of the fifth Test as an 'over-reaction'. The incident occurred moments after the youngster was involved in a war of words with Jasprit Bumrah at the non-striker's end.

Konstas got involved after the Indian speedster was frustrated with Usman Khawaja's time-wasting tactics during the final over. Umpires had to separate Koinstas from the heated altercation, and the incident riled up Bumrah and the rest of the Indian side. Following Khawaja's dismissal, the bowler dished out a cold stare, while the rest of the team came running from all sides as Konstas walked off.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald had labelled the celebrations as 'intimidating', while India head coach Gautam Gambhir lambasted the opposition for being 'too soft'.

Shipperd felt that the Indian team warranted a punishment for their 'super-aggression' towards Konstas.

“I don’t know if he thrives on it. I think it surprised him. I think it was a disgraceful act and should have been punished far more severely than it was. He or the circumstance got under the skin of Jasprit, and the team response was super aggressive towards him. I think he’ll walk through that and look forward to his next opportunity in Sri Lanka," Shipperd told Fox Sports

The incident did not shake Konstas, as he came out with his brazen approach on Day 2 to score 23 runs in the first innings. His quick-fire 22 runs off 17 deliveries in the second innings also ensured a smooth start for Australia in the run chase to seal the match and the series.

"You can't be that soft" - Gautam Gambhir on uproar over Sam Konstas controversy

Konstas was embroiled in controversy on Boxing Day in Melbourne when Virat Kohli barged into him, leading to a verbal exchange. On that occasion, the Indian batter was handed a demerit point and a fine. However, the match referee did not deem the celebration in Sydney to be in breach of the regulations, and hence no sanctions were imposed.

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir placed the blame on Konstas for meddling in a situation unnecessarily.

"It's a tough sport played by tough men. You can't be that soft. As simple as it can get. I don't think there was anything intimidating about it. He had no right to be talking to Jasprit Bumrah when Usman Khawaja was taking time. He had no right. He had no business to be involved with Jasprit Bumrah, that was a job for the umpire," Gambhir said during the post-match press conference in Sydney (via cricket.com.au)

Konstas has made a lasting impression in his maiden series and is highly likely to retain his spot for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.