Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin believes Sam Konstas should return to state cricket if he isn’t part of the playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka. The former wicketkeeper-batter has urged selectors to send the young batter back home after Travis Head partnered Usman Khawaja at the top in the series opener in Galle.
Haddin’s comments come as Konstas has played only 13 first-class matches (22 innings), accumulating 831 runs at an average of 39.57, with two centuries and four half-centuries to his name. Despite his limited red-ball experience, the 19-year-old is already being considered for a potential spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa later this year.
“He’s just 19, so if he’s not in contention for the second Test, I’d send him back home to play state cricket. He hasn’t had much game time, and the more he plays, the better he’ll become. Spending a couple of weeks in Sri Lanka would have been a great learning experience for him, but if he’s not needed, it’s best for him to return and keep batting.”
“Travis Head and Usman Khawaja have been outstanding as openers, and I’m confident that Konstas will seamlessly return to the lineup for the Test Championship”
“He’s still young, with a bright future ahead. We’re going to witness a fantastic player for years to come.”
“In just six months, he has emerged as a top-tier talent. He’s still growing and refining his game, but there’s no doubt about his potential.”
Konstas was last seen in action for the Big Bash League (BBL) runners-up, Sydney Thunder, where he delivered an impressive 53 off 42 balls against the Perth Scorchers.
Meanwhile, Australia has successfully retained the Warne-Muralitharan Trophy after a commanding innings-and-242-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test. The two sides will face off again in the second Test, set to begin in Galle on Thursday, February 6.