MITCHELL JOHNSON: Sam Konstas should have let Usman Khawaja argue with Jasprit Bumrah during SCG Test

It feels like a lifetime ago after the fast-paced carnage we just witnessed at the SCG, but cricket karma was on full display in two memorable incidents on day one of the final Test.

The first involved Indian batsman Shubman Gill and Steve Smith just before the tea break, with Gill trying to slow the game down and Smithy saying something to him.

Gill then charged Nathan Lyon and got out before the break and the Aussies let him know about it.

The second featured Australia’s Usman Khawaja, who was dismissed on the last ball of the day after delaying play to try and face only two more deliveries.

This latter moment triggered a verbal exchange between fellow opener Sam Konstas and an animated Jasprit Bumrah, with India having the last laugh just a couple of balls later.

When it comes to a showdown between the batsman and bowler, it’s often the bowler who comes out on top.

A batsman can fall to one poor shot or be undone by one ball that is perfectly delivered, and with that comes a chorus of celebration from the bowler and teammates.

So engaging in banter or a battle with a bowler requires intense focus, as any lapse could lead to a dismissal, and then the player has to deal with the repercussions.

Konstas’ inexperience showed when he inserted himself into a situation he probably shouldn’t have. Khawaja, being an experienced player, knows how to manage such moments and the teenager should have left it to him.

I appreciate what Konstas was trying to do by supporting his teammate, but it was simply the wrong time for that kind of engagement. At that late stage of the day, there could only be one winner.

I wonder if Khawaja had a chat with Konstas or if any of the other senior players offered him some advice after the day’s play on how to navigate such situations.

This highlights a crucial aspect of introducing new players to the team: they need the guidance of experienced teammates to understand how to handle various scenarios within the game’s dynamics.

The repercussions of the previous day’s events carried over into the morning session of day two, where the Indian team was visibly energised.

You could see and hear them bustling around the batters’ crease, making their presence felt to distract the Australian players and reinforce their unity.

This tactic is one that we’ve seen Australian teams employ over the years, and it was evident they also utilised it during this series.

The Indian side appeared to embrace the mindset that it was “two against 11” out in the middle, aiming to make the Aussie batters feel isolated and under pressure.

The focus was on not just testing the technical skills of their opponents but also challenging their mental toughness.

In Test cricket, it’s crucial to create that environment, one where the batters are distracted from their primary objective. This psychological edge can often prove to be just as important as any physical skill in the game.

Trying to intimidate the Aussie rookies didn’t really pay off with both Konstas and Beau Webster proving their worth.

No one deserved to hit the winning runs for Australia on Sunday more than Webster.

His dream debut in the baggy green was more than a decade in the making and his strong performance not just with bat and ball but also in the field has put not just all-rounder Cameron Green on notice but he top six batters as well

Webster made a notable impact on debut, including an invaluable half century when every other Aussie batter failed to fire and his first Test wicket on Saturday.

He followed it up with an unbeaten 39 on Sunday as he and Travis Head got the run chase back on track after several key wickets fell.

Webster’s debut at the SCG was a moment filled with joy and personal significance for him, evident in the big smile he wore.

It wasn’t just the cherished cap he received but also the way he approached the game that stood out.

His demeanour during media interactions suggested he felt comfortable in his role and then the way he played, treating it as another day at the office rather than a pressure-filled debut.

At 31, Webster brings a wealth of experience, combining youthful energy with the wisdom of seasoned play.

His confident yet relaxed attitude could be a significant asset for the team, suggesting he’s not just a player but also a potential motivator in the dressing room.

It’s clear that Webster fits well into the team dynamic and could play a vital role moving forward.