Mark Waugh calls Sam Konstas' altercation with Jasprit Bumrah during the IND vs. AUS 5th Test "naive," saying that he "should've minded his own business."

Sam Konstas' high-energy style in BGT 2025 has raised worries from Mark Waugh, who said it may put pressure on the Australian squad and divert players like Khawaja. He cautioned that Konstas' career could suffer if he provoked opposition players, especially Jasprit Bumrah.

During the ongoing BGT 2025, Mark Waugh has expressed his worries regarding Sam Konstas' exuberant style. He thinks it would further harm the Australian squad and overburden the young batter.

He has always played his game through the juniors, and I'm not sure if that's simply naive exuberance or if he really enjoys being enthusiastic and interested in the game.However, the Australian cricket icon was quoted by Fox Sports as adding, "There was really no need for Sam to get involved there."

Regarding the altercation between Konstas and India's stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah, Waugh stated, "I think he should have bit his tongue, and it's got nothing to do with him actually and it might have broken the concentration of Khawaja."

Khawaja was attempting to wind down the time, but Konstas seemed too anxious to participate. Such actions might make Konstas a target for opposing players for the rest of his career, said Waugh.

"I simply believe he is inciting the opposition." Jasprit is fired up by him. You do not wish to enrage him.
After giving it some thought, I believe Sam will conclude that he should have kept his mouth shut and said, "I have to let the bat do the talking," Waugh continued.

Konstas struck a rapid 23 runs on Day 2 of the 5th Test in BGT 2024–25, hitting three boundaries, including a bold ramp shot off Bumrah. His innings was short-lived, though, when Mohammed Siraj's bowling was caught by Yashasvi Jaiswal.

O'Keeffe Kerry on Sam Konstas

Speaking on Test Daily, former Australian cricketer Kerry O'Keeffe cautioned that Konstas' strategy could backfire, particularly when facing a bowler like Bumrah. Day 1's tight mood was brought up by disputed umpiring calls involving Washington Sundar and Virat Kohli, as O'Keeffe pointed out.