Konstas received the life-changing news while practicing in the nets. “I was actually in the nets when I got the call from George Bailey, and he told me I was in the Test squad,” he said. “I was so thrilled. I called my parents straight away, and they were very emotional.”
The young batter shared a heartwarming account of his parents’ reactions. “Mum was in tears; I was trying not to cry. And Dad was super proud,” Konstas said. “It’s been an amazing journey with all the ups and downs. I’m very grateful for their sacrifices.”
If Konstas makes his debut in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Groundhe will become the youngest Australian Test batting debutant in over 70 years. His inclusion has raised expectations of a bold move by the selectors, who see the right-hander as a key player for the future. His call-up also makes him the youngest Australian Test debutant since Pat Cummins, who earned his Baggy Green at 18 in 2011.
Despite the weight of expectations, Konstas remains focused and humble. “Hopefully, I will meet the team tomorrow and then go from there,” he said.
The selectors’ decision to include Konstas as a specialist opener alongside Usman Khawaja reflects their confidence in his ability to adapt quickly to the demands of international cricket. For Konstas, it’s an opportunity to repay the faith and make his mark on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
As Australia prepares to face India in the crucial fourth Test, starting on Thursday at the MCG, all eyes will be on Konstas, whose emotional journey to the Test squad has already captured the hearts of cricket fans.
Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
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