‘Cousin & Grandpa Passed Away From Bowel Cancer’: Pink Test Was A ‘Special Event’ For Sam Konstas – News18

Last Updated:January 06, 2025, 23:07 IST

Young Australia batter Sam Konstas shared the heartbreaking losses his family endured and expressed hope that the event at the SCG would continue making a difference.

The ‘Pink Test’ at Sydney, known for spreading cancer awareness, holds a deeply personal meaning for young Australian batting prodigy Sam Konstas, who has lost close family members to the devastating disease.

Since 2009, the Sydney Test has been dedicated to Glenn McGrath’s late wife Jane, who passed away in 2008 after battling breast cancer. In her memory, the McGrath Foundation has raised millions of dollars to fight the illness.

Speaking to Triple M Cricket, Konstas shared the heartbreaking losses his family endured and expressed hope that the event at the SCG would continue making a difference.

“Obviously, it’s a special event—the McGrath Foundation—and hopefully, we can spread more awareness for cancer and raise funds,” Konstas said. “I remember my cousin passed away from leukaemia, and my grandpa from bowel cancer. So, we just hope to keep raising awareness and find a cure.”

Konstas recently found himself in the thick of things during a fiery moment with India’s captain Jasprit Bumrah during the fifth Test. However, the 19-year-old remained unfazed by the tense exchange.

The drama began when Konstas stepped in as Bumrah grew visibly frustrated with Usman Khawaja taking extra time to settle into his stance. The confrontation escalated to the point where umpires had to intervene. Bumrah eventually dismissed Khawaja on the final ball of the day, sending Konstas a pointed send-off.

“Oh, I didn’t get too bothered,” Konstas shrugged. “Unfortunately, Uzi got out. He was just trying to buy a little time—it was probably my fault, but that’s cricket.”

He was gracious in defeat, adding, “Credit to Bumrah—he got the wicket. But it was a great performance from the team.”

Australia’s win sealed their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, ending India’s hopes of making the cut. Instead, the Aussies will now face South Africa in the summit clash.

When asked if he was nervous ahead of his debut, Konstas recalled feeling remarkably composed. “No, I was very calm. I talked to my parents and teammates,” he said.

He admitted, though, that the packed stadium added an undeniable thrill. “Uzi said my adrenaline was pumping while I was batting, but I didn’t really feel it. Still, it was a great debut, and I’m glad we got two wins,” he concluded.

Location :

Sydney, Australia