Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Sam Konstas’ Inclusion Sparks Debate Ahead of Boxing Day Test
Sam Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney in Australia’s squad for the Boxing Day Test, igniting contrasting opinions from former players Mark Waugh and Michael Hussey. Waugh supports the decision, citing the need for aggression at the top order, while Hussey calls McSweeney’s exclusion a tough call after just three games.
The decision to include 19-year-old Sam Konstas in place of Nathan McSweeney for the Boxing Day Test against India has divided opinions among cricketing experts. Former Australian cricketers Mark Waugh and Michael Hussey weighed in on the matter, offering contrasting perspectives.
Waugh believes the selectors made the right call by opting for a more aggressive option at the top of the order. He said:
He’ll open, I reckon he’s a certainty to open. I think they’ve selected him with the thought process that they need a bit more positive stroke play at the top of the order… McSweeney wasn’t scoring either. So I think the young, more aggressive player will play for sure.
While excited about Konstas’ potential, Waugh acknowledged the challenges the Aussie openers faced. He added:
The ball’s been moving around a bit. It’s not going to be that easy just to come out and be really aggressive against someone like Bumrah on pitches that have got plenty in it.
Hussey, however, felt McSweeney’s exclusion after just three Tests was harsh. He explained:
The top order, yes, they haven’t been scoring, but they’ve been chewing up a bit of time to allow guys like Travis Head and Alex Carey to come in and play their natural game.
Konstas’ inclusion follows his impressive performances, including a century against India in a Prime Minister’s XI match. However, this will be his first real test against India’s spearhead Jasprit Bumrah on the challenging MCG pitch. For Australia, securing the series remains paramount, with the World Test Championship in sight.
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