Sam Konstas set to debut in Boxing Day Test, youngest Australian debutant after Pat Cummins
Australia’s cricketing future looks bright as 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to debut in the Boxing Day Test against India. Hailing from Sydney, the young batter will become the second youngest Australian Test debutant this century, following in the footsteps of Pat Cummins. The decision comes as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) stands evenly poised at 1-1 after three matches.
Mentored by former all-rounder Shane Watson, Konstas has quickly risen through the ranks. His breakthrough performance came during the 2023 Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, where he played a pivotal role in Australia’s championship victory. Domestically, he has impressed with 718 runs in just 11 first-class matches at an average of 42.23 for New South Wales.
Initially overlooked for Australia A, Konstas forced the selectors’ hands with a sensational 107 off 97 balls for the Prime Minister’s XI against India. Facing a formidable Indian bowling attack comprising Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, and Ravindra Jadeja, Konstas dominated, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney in the lineup, with Usman Khawaja’s continued struggle for form also influencing the decision. This selection adds a youthful dimension to Australia’s squad, which aims to bounce back strongly in the critical Boxing Day Test.
Australia’s Squad for 4th & 5th Tests:
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Sean Abbott
- Scott Boland
- Alex Carey
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Usman Khawaja
- Sam Konstas
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Nathan Lyon
- Mitchell Marsh
- Jhye Richardson
- Steve Smith
- Mitchell Starc
- Beau Webster
The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the World Test Championship final. For Konstas, it is an opportunity to cement his place in the Australian setup while Australia looks to leverage his explosive batting to tilt the series in their favor.