Australia May Consider 19-Year-Old Sam Konstas for Border-Gavaskar Series Opener

Australia’s coach Andrew McDonald is open to including the young batter Sam Konstas as an opener in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India. The 19-year-old has shown impressive form in domestic cricket, making a strong case for a spot in the team.

As Australia prepares for the Border-Gavaskar series against India starting on November 22 in Perth, head coach Andrew McDonald is considering the possibility of giving 19-year-old Sam Konstas a shot at the opening position. Konstas has caught the selectors’ attention with a century in each innings for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield opener and a solid knock of 43 in the following match.

A Promising Start for Konstas

The young batter has yet to make his international debut, but his first-class performances have been noteworthy. Earlier this year, Konstas was a key player in Australia’s U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup-winning squad, adding to his impressive cricketing resume. His recent domestic form has put him in the spotlight, raising the possibility of him partnering with Usman Khawaja at the top of the order.

The Team’s Approach to Selection

Steve Smith, who filled the opener’s role in four Tests after David Warner’s retirement, is expected to return to his usual No. 4 spot. This shift leaves the opening position available, and McDonald has indicated that age won’t be a barrier if Konstas is the right fit for the team.

Speaking to ABC TV’s Offsiders, McDonald said, “Any time we’re picking a Test team … we’re picking the best team for here and now. If that includes a younger player, then we’ll go down that path. Sam Konstas has certainly made some noise with his performances in the Sheffield Shield.”

He added, “If they’re ready, they’re ready in our mind. The opponent shouldn’t come into the equation. You’ve got to start against someone, and holding back a player because of the opposition doesn’t make sense to us.”

Crucial Series in the World Test Championship

The five-match Border-Gavaskar series is crucial in the context of the World Test Championship standings. Australia and India currently occupy the top two spots, but the rankings could change as India still has a match left in their ongoing series against New Zealand, where they trail 2-0.

What’s Next?

With the series just weeks away, Australia’s squad announcement is eagerly awaited. All eyes are on whether Sam Konstas will get a chance to debut in one of cricket’s biggest rivalries.