Australia’s young all -rounder Cooper Konoli The ICC Champions Trophy nurtured his memorable outing against India in the semi -finals, where he rejected Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Despite being rejected quickly by Mohammed Shami, sometimes, Conoli remained optimistic, taking valuable lessons from his high pressure debut in a major tournament.
Creating its first appearance in the Champions Trophy, Konoli stepped up to open with the Travis Head after the unfortunate injury of the Matthew Short. However, 21-year-old Shami suffered a surprising out-swing delivery, who performed his mastery with a new ball. Considering the dismissal, Konoli accepted Shami’s skill, saying, “Shami is a world -class player for a reason. He has played a lot of cricket.”
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The composite of Konoli was tested early as he caught Rohit Sharma at the second place of India’s chase. Although the moment could have disturbed many, Konoli was surprised, focusing on the next challenge. “This is a cricket game. You are going out, you’re going to leave a catch – you have got to get with what you have,” he said.
When handed over to the ball, Konoli took his first ODI wicket for his earlier memory by claiming Rohit Sharma’s prized skull. In a high-handed struggle, dismissing the Indian captain, marked a decisive moment for the youth, which shared his mentality during the tense period. He revealed, “By the time I was bowling (leave Rohit), I was completely out of my mind. I was just trying to compete as much as I could and hope that the team would get success.”
Konoli, who made his Test debut against Sri Lanka earlier in the year, is hungry for more opportunities internationally. He said, “To defeat my baggy and then play a game in the Champions Trophy, this dream came true … Hopefully there is a lot to come,” he said.
Looking forward, Konoli is determined to improve and create its opportunities. “I think it is about focusing on what it is in front of me at this time, not looking much further, and just trying to enjoy playing cricket and hopefully put some score on the board,” he said.
After tasting the big platform, the resolve to succeed Konoli remains stronger than before. “Obviously you want to get a little taste of it,” he concluded.
Cooper Konoli, Center, celebrates the dismissal of Rohit Sharma. (AP photo)
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