Sam Konstas to Debut for Australia in Boxing Day Test

Sam Konstas a 19-year-old opener will make his Test debut for Australia in the Boxing Day match against India, becoming the youngest Australian Test batting debutant since Ian Craig in 1953. He replaces Nathan McSweeney, who struggled in the series by scoring just 72 runs at an average of 14.40. The series remains tied at 1-1 with two Tests left to play. Australia’s head coach, Andrew McDonald praised Konstas, highlighting his composure and confidence in his current form.

“Boxing Day, the biggest stage—he might as well get that one out of the way early,” McDonald remarked. Sam Konstas has impressed in the domestic Sheffield Shield this season where he scored two centuries against South Australia. At his age, only Ricky Ponting achieved this feat back in 1993. McDonald clarified that the team selected Konstas to pose a new challenge to India’s bowlers, who have dominated the series so far.

Despite believing in McSweeney’s potential at the Test level, the selectors decided to adjust the top order. “We’re confident Sam can do the job,” McDonald stated. The coach also expressed confidence in Travis Head’s availability despite a quad strain. Head has excelled, scoring 409 runs including two centuries in the first three Tests. Meanwhile, Scott Boland will likely replace the injured Josh Hazlewood in the bowling lineup and Mitchell Marsh has regained fitness to play.

Australia captain Pat Cummins plans to reveal the final XI on Wednesday with the match starting at 23:30 GMT. Fans can follow the game live with ball-by-ball commentary on BBC Sounds, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sport website and app which also offer video highlights (for UK users only).