IND vs AUS: Who is Sam Konstas?
Australia has announced their Test squad for the remaining two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, including 19-year-old batsman Sam Konstas. The young cricketer is expected to open the innings alongside Usman Khawaja in the remaining Tests against India. Earlier, McSweeney was assigned the opening role but failed to deliver the expected performance.
Sam Konstas, a New South Wales cricketer, has been given this opportunity as part of Cricket Australia’s plan to identify a reliable opener for the Test format. The selectors are confident that Sam can thrive under pressure and perform well in these crucial matches.
Impressive Domestic and T20 Record
Sam’s record across all formats of cricket has been remarkable. In December 2024, he debuted for the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL), where he opened with David Warner and smashed a blistering 57 runs off just 26 balls. This innings, which featured eight fours and two sixes, became the fastest fifty in Sydney Thunder history and was instrumental in their victory over the Adelaide Strikers.
Sam also showcased his talent during the pink-ball warm-up match against India at Manuka Oval while playing for the Prime Minister’s XI. He scored a crucial 107 runs off 97 balls against a formidable Indian bowling attack, hitting 14 fours and a six. This performance further established his potential as a future star for Australia.
In October-November 2024, Sam represented Australia A against India A. In the second unofficial Test, he played a vital role, scoring an unbeaten 73 runs in the second innings to secure a win for his team.
Key Achievements and Recognition
Sam has amassed 736 runs across all formats in 2024. In 11 first-class matches, he has scored 718 runs at an impressive average of 42.23. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has praised Sam, describing him as a fearless and consistent batsman.
If selected to debut in Melbourne, Sam Konstas will become only the third Australian cricketer in 40 years to debut as a teenager in Test cricket, following in the footsteps of Pat Cummins and Ashton Agar.
Australia’s Squad for the Final Two Tests Against India
- Pat Cummins (captain)
- Travis Head (vice-captain)
- Steve Smith (vice-captain)
- Shaun Abbott
- Scott Boland
- Alex Carey
- Josh Inglis
- Usman Khawaja
- Sam Konstas
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Nathan Lyon
- Mitchell Marsh
- Jhye Richardson
- Mitchell Starc
- Beau Webster
