Sam Konstas not to open for Australia in tests against Sri Lanka? Chief selector George Bailey shares massive update

Sam Konstas made his test debut against India in the BGT 2024-25.

Young Australian opener Sam Konstas made headlines with a sensational debut knock of 60 runs in the Boxing Day test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The 19-year-old impressed everyone with his fearless approach, playing three ramp shots off Jasprit Bumrah in a single over. He also gave Australia quickfire start in their chase in Sydney.

Following impressive performances in his debut series, Konstas has been included in the test squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. Konstas, however, is not guaranteed a spot in the playing XI.

This is because Australia may use Travis Head in the opening slot. Australia had tried Head in the opening role during the series in India in 2023, aimed at targeting the pacers before the spinners come on and make use of the spin-friendly surface.

Australia’s Chief Selector George Bailey has now shared a massive update regarding Sam Konstas’ position for the upcoming tour.

George Bailey on Sam Konstas batting position on Sri Lanka tour

Speaking to cricket.com.au, Bailey lavished praise on Sam Konstas and believes his technique is well-suited for Sri Lankan conditions.

Bailey said, “What we have seen is he’s (Konstas) a quick learner. (He) absorbs a lot of information, So (we’re) expecting him to get to get a lot out of it. I know from his spin play in Australia, and the opportunities he’s (had) in different parts of the world, we think he’s got a game that’s well suited.“

“But that’s one of the exciting things about this tour – we will learn a bit more about his game in different conditions to what he’s just faced in Australia.”

He further mentioned that Travis Head is another option to open the innings on the tour, with the final decision on the batting order resting with stand-in captain Steve Smith and coach Andrew McDonald.

He added, “Trav’s (Travis Head) an option (to open). We’ve got a number of options and there’s been a few preliminary discussions around where that may land, and that may depend on the makeup of that first XI,“

“I think (head coach) Andrew (McDonald,) and (stand-in captain) Steve (Smith) will settle on that in due course, once we hit Sri Lanka.”

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