Image: Will Sam Constas make his debut in the fourth Test against India? / © Nine
For the 4th Test against India in Melbourne, Australia’s selectors face tough decisions as they consider the squad amidst struggles with their opening pair. Veteran opener Usman Khawaja has gone 11 innings without a half-century, averaging just 12.60 in this series, marking the lowest home Test series average for an Australian opener since 1997. Nathan McSweeney, while showing resilience, remains unconvincing in his relatively new role as an opener.
This has brought 19-year-old Sam Konstas into contention after a stellar domestic season, where he averages 55.83. Konstas gained attention in October with twin tons in a Sheffield Shield match, making him the youngest since Ricky Ponting to achieve this feat. He has continued his form, scoring 107 against India for the Prime Minister’s XI, 88 for New South Wales, and a quick 56 in the Big Bash League in recent weeks.
Selectors are expected to announce the squad on Friday, with Scott Boland likely replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood. Captain Pat Cummins defended the team’s batting collapse in Brisbane, citing aggressive intent, and backed chief selector George Bailey’s decision-making. Meanwhile, Konstas remains focused on learning from David Warner, describing his debut as a matter of “when, not if”.