‘Amazing’ teenager Sam Konstas sets Thunder and BBL records

Sam Konstas’ star continues to soar after the teenager’s record-breaking BBL debut against the Adelaide Strikers in Canberra.

Budding star Sam Konstas has immediately stamped his name on the Big Bash League after a record-breaking performance on debut in the Sydney Thunder’s two-wicket win over the Adelaide Strikers.

The 19-year-old, who is inching closer to a Test berth after his impressive season with NSW, opened the batting alongside skipper David Warner for the Thunder in Canberra on Tuesday night.

Watch every game of the BBL live and ad-break free during play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer.

After they lost the toss and were sent in to bat, the Strikers managed 8/182 from their 20 overs, with Jamie Overton leading the way with an unbeaten 45.

After the Thunder fell in a deep hole, some huge late hitting from Daniel Sams (42 from 18 balls) led them to an impressive victory with just two balls remaining.

But Konstas was the name on most people’s lips, after he smashed the fastest half-century in Thunder history, coming from just 20 balls.

Sam Konstas impressed everyone on debut in Canberra. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

It was one delivery quicker than Alex Hales managed for the Sydneysiders against the Melbourne Stars back in 2020, while Konstas is also the competition’s youngest player to hit a BBL half-century, 28 days younger than Jason Sangha.

While Warner fell cheaply, making just seven from five balls, Konstas’ knock left the Fox Cricket commentators in awe.

“The youngster comes back for his first 50 on debut for the Thunder and he’s loving it,” Brendon Julian said on Fox Cricket.

“Why wouldn’t he?”

Mark Waugh added: “Oh how easy? Youngster, first game, 50 off 20. Thank you.”

Mike Hussey was particularly effusive about the teenager, who showed impressive temperament on his first attempt on the BBL stage.

“What an innings, amazing,” Hussey said. “Amazing performance.

“He’s 19 years of age, big stage, and he’s hardly mistimed a ball.

“Played some beautiful shots, he’s innovative, showed some power as well. It’s been a class innings.”

Cameron Bancroft congratulates Konstas on his half-century. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Fabian Allen (centre) celebrates after finally dismissing the teenager. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Waugh called the opener “impossible to bowl to”, stating “they don’t know where to bowl to him”.

Konstas was eventually dismissed for 57 from 26 balls after a DRS review for LBW from spinner Fabian Allen, having belted eight boundaries and two huge sixes at Manuka Oval.

The superlatives kept coming after Konstas made way.

“A very, very good innings. What an innings from Sam Konstas,” Julian said.

“Ends up with 57 from 26 on debut, mind you. Very good.”

Frustrated at his dismissal, Konstas should only look at the positives, according to Hussey.

“Excellent innings,” he said. “He’ll be disappointed to get out, but I think you have to look at the positives and I think he’s exceeded expectations in his first game.

“Fastest 50 in Thunder history in your first game. It’s exciting, very exciting for Sydney Thunder fans.”

Konstas has also impressed in Shield cricket this season. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

Michael Vaughan was among those taking to X to comment on the youngster, with the former England captain simply tweeting the name Sam Konstas along with six eyes emojis.

Sports reporter Oliver Caffrey wrote: “Sam Konstas, on BBL debut, casually smacks the fastest 50 by a Sydney Thunder player. Supreme talent.”

News Limited journalist Lachlan McKirdy added: “Sam Konstas. Buckle up, this is gonna be a helluva career.”

During the match, Warner also raved about the youngster.

“He’s calm and clear in his mind, it was actually exciting to go out there and bat with him,” he said.

“His chitchat was good, he’s playing with freedom and that’s what you want from a youngster.”

Cricket fans on social media were also loving what they were watching.

“Holy s**t this kid is good,” was one comment on X.

“What an incredible feat by Sam Konstas today,” wrote another.

“This kid should be playing for Australia in red ball cricket. Somewhere in the top 3,” offered a third.

Originally published as ‘Amazing’ teenager Sam Konstas sets Thunder and BBL records