Australia’s cricket selectors have sprung a surprise by calling up 19-year-old opener Sam Konstas for a likely Boxing Day Test debut against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The meteoric rise of the St George junior continues, as he prepares to face off against Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah on the biggest stage.
Konstas comes in as a replacement for the out-of-form Nathan McSweeney, with the Australian brains trust looking for a more aggressive partner for the elegant Usman Khawaja at the top of the order. The precociously talented right-hander averages an impressive 42 in his fledgling first-class career for New South Wales, after just 11 matches.
Unfazed by the Challenge
Facing a media contingent of around 50 at the MCG, Konstas exuded a calm confidence beyond his years when quizzed about the prospect of facing Bumrah, who has already snared 21 wickets in the hotly contested series. The level-headed lad from Sydney’s southern suburbs wasn’t giving much away though.
“I do [have a plan], I’m not going to say what it is, just trying to put pressure back on the bowlers. Pretty simple, just back myself and see-ball, hit-ball, really.”
– Sam Konstas on his approach to facing Jasprit Bumrah
That uncomplicated, attacking philosophy has been the hallmark of Konstas’ rapid rise through the ranks. After a few early failures for Australia A in recent tour matches, he bounced back with an unbeaten 73 at the MCG. Strong performances for the PM’s XI and NSW Sheffield Shield side followed, catching the eye of Test selectors.
Sage Advice from a Mentor
Konstas revealed he has been leaning on the guidance of his batting mentor, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson. The takeaway message? Just treat it like any other game and play without fear. Sound counsel for a young man on the cusp of realizing his Baggy Green dream.
“If he gets the chance to play, turn the stump mics up when he’s in at short leg, because he’s got some good bantz [banter]. He’s a funny young kid, and I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes about it.”
– NSW teammate Sean Abbott on Konstas’ on-field chat
Runs on the Board
While he is yet to be officially confirmed for a cherished Baggy Green cap, Konstas’ selection in the squad as one of only two specialist openers makes him a strong chance to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order on December 26th. And his domestic teammates are backing him to make an impact.
“It does not bother him who he’s coming up against. The other day we were playing against Marcus Harris and Peter Handscomb, who’ve got a fair bit of experience. He was pretty unfazed and I’d imagine, should he get the opportunity [in Melbourne], it’d be pretty similar.”
– Sean Abbott on Konstas’ fearless approach
Potential Debut in Context
If selected, Sam Konstas, at 19 years and 2 months, would become the third youngest Australian to make his Test debut in the past 50 years, behind only Ricky Ponting (18y 331d) and Pat Cummins (18y 201d). He would also be the youngest Australian debutant in a Boxing Day Test match since Ian Craig in 1953.
The cricket world will be watching with bated breath to see if this preternaturally gifted young gun can handle the blowtorch heat of a Boxing Day Ashes debut. Australian fans will be hoping his simple ‘see-ball, hit-ball’ mantra can help put the Indian attack to the sword, as their team aims to level the series at the iconic Melbourne colosseum.
