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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 is heating up, with Team India taking a commanding victory in the first Test. Australia’s team composition and player form are under scrutiny, and one name that stands out as a potential game-changer is 19-year-old Sam Konstas. The young New South Wales batter has been making waves in domestic and international cricket, and here are three compelling reasons why he deserves a spot in the Australian squad for the remaining Tests.
3 reasons why Sam Konstas should feature in remaining matches of BGT
1. Stellar domestic performances reflect consistency
Konstas has been a revelation in the domestic circuit, particularly in the Sheffield Shield. His remarkable twin hundreds against South Australia showcased not only his skill but also his temperament under pressure. Achieving this milestone at 19 years old, he became the youngest player since Ricky Ponting in 1993 to score twin centuries in the Sheffield Shield.
This level of consistency in domestic cricket highlights his ability to adapt and excel in challenging conditions, a trait Australia desperately needs in the ongoing series. His inclusion would inject fresh energy into the middle order, which has struggled, particularly with Nathan McSweeney‘s underwhelming debut and Marnus Labuschagne‘s lack of form in the first Test.
2. Impressive experience at a young age
Despite his youth, Konstas has already gained valuable international experience. His exploits in the U19 World Cup were notable, especially his knock of 108 runs off 121 balls against a strong West Indies team. This innings was a testament to his ability to perform on the big stage and against quality bowling attacks.
Additionally, his recent century against India in the pink-ball warm-up game for the Prime Minister’s XI further solidifies his credentials. Facing a formidable Indian bowling attack, Konstas smashed a brilliant 107 off 97 balls, demonstrating not only his talent but also his ability to thrive against world-class opposition. His attacking approach and ability to anchor innings could provide Australia with the much-needed stability and momentum in their batting lineup.
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3. Opportunity to revitalize Australia’s middle order
Australia’s middle order struggled in the first Test, with McSweeney scoring 10 and 0, while Labuschagne failed to make a significant impact. The lack of runs from key positions puts additional pressure on the top order, and this is where Konstas could play a crucial role.
Konstas has shown a knack for stepping up in challenging situations, as evidenced by his performances in domestic cricket and against India in the warm-up game. His technique, combined with an aggressive mindset, could help counter India’s bowling attack, especially the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana, who were unplayable in the first Test.
By giving Konstas an opportunity, the Australian selectors could also make a long-term investment in a player who has the potential to be a cornerstone of their batting lineup for years to come. His inclusion would not only strengthen the current squad but also pave the way for a promising future.
