Sam Konstas, the promising 19-year-old cricketer, is gearing up for a pivotal season as he sets his sights on the upcoming Ashes series. Having ended the last Shield season with back-to-back fifties, Konstas’s recent performance has garnered attention, but he faces challenges ahead. After a difficult Test tour in the Caribbean, he lost his way. Now, he’s hellbent not only on honing his game, more importantly, ensuring he continues to develop and cement his place as the mainstay of the Australian Test side.
Konstas enjoyed a short spell of rest after the West Indies tour before he was back in the nets just a week later. He understands the importance of preparation, stating, “It’s massive. It’s going to be a big four games and I expect that.” These flat wickets in Pakistan will be vital opportunities for him to show he can develop his game before the Ashes squad is picked.
The young opener is savvy to the competition he’s facing, most notably from Tasmania’s Jake Weatherald. As he looks to secure a berth for the Ashes he will have four Shield matches to do so and impress the selectors. Chairman of selectors, George Bailey … said selectors know that often selection is about timing and form. “A lot of selection is potentially being in the right place at the right time,” Bailey remarked, adding that if Konstas starts strong, he will be well in the mix.
Support from fellow players and teammates is an essential part of Konstas’s development. He expressed appreciation for guidance from fellow player Copeland and coach Trevor Bayliss, as well as potential opening partner David Warner. The people around him have told him to “be yourself” at the crease, and that’s only further pushed him on the path to being the best version of himself.
Reflecting on his journey, Konstas stated, “I’m just trying to get better and be in the present moment, not getting too fazed about what other people say.” That mentality is very fundamental. He is preparing to catch the eye ahead of an India tour with the Australia A side next month.
The young star has done his best to stay positive amid his recent woes, as he takes fulfillment in where he’s getting. “It’s home and it’s everything,” he said of the deep bond he shares with the game. He knows that the key to his success is continuing to focus on the process and not the end result. “It’s just trusting what I think’s right in that current moment,” he added.
