Rohit Sharma advises Sam Konstas to focus on cricket instead of wasting time in sledging

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The altercation between Jasprit Bumrah and young Australian opener Sam Konstas during the first day of the fifth Test at the SCG has sparked widespread debate.

Weighing in on the matter, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who missed the match due to a lean patch in form, criticized Konstas for his behaviour and urged him to focus on cricket rather than unnecessary banter.

Speaking to Star Sports, Rohit stated, "Our boys, till they're calm, will remain calm. If you keep poking them, not everyone is going to remain calm. Cricket khelo, yeh faaltu ke cheeze, bol bachchan karna, shobha nahi dete (Play cricket; this unnecessary talk and banter don't suit you). Our boys are classy. We focus on what our job is and work towards it."

The incident occurred when Usman Khawaja, Konstas's senior partner, delayed facing Bumrah's delivery, citing unreadiness as the bowler approached his run-up. Adding fuel to the fire, Konstas stepped in, gesturing at Bumrah, prompting a heated exchange. "What's the problem?" Bumrah asked as he confronted the youngster. Umpires intervened to defuse the tension before it escalated further.

Moments later, Bumrah had the last laugh, dismissing Khawaja with a precision delivery that induced an edge, neatly caught by KL Rahul. Instead of a jubilant celebration, Bumrah turned toward Konstas, delivering an icy glare that spoke volumes about his composure and competitive spirit.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting also weighed in on the matter, criticizing Konstas's decision to involve himself. Speaking on Channel 7, Ponting said, "One guy you don't want to upset is Jasprit Bumrah. The way he's bowled and the fact he has got Khawaja out five times in the series... I didn't like Konstas getting involved. That was not his battle to fight. It was between Khawaja and Bumrah."

As the series unfolds, all eyes will be on Konstas to see how he learns from the episode and responds under pressure.