Bayliss Praises Konstas' Uncommon Self-Belief

New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) Trevor Bayliss, the renowned Australian coach who propelled England to Ashes triumph and a World Cup victory, has observed something remarkable in Sam Konstas, the 19-year-old cricketer, noting a rare self-assurance and belief that he has encountered in only a few elite players.

Bayliss, currently coaching the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL), is confident that it’s just a matter of time before Konstas receives a call-up to play for Australia in Test cricket, potentially as soon as the Boxing Day Test.

“What I can say is Sam has a self-confidence you don’t see in very many,” Bayliss shared with The Sydney Morning Herald. “I’ve only seen it in a few over the years, and all of those players were outstanding Test and international players - individuals like (Michael) Clarke, (Brad) Haddin, (David) Warner, and (Steve) Smith.

“It’s hard to explain, but all of those players had a certain belief and confidence. While most players possess it, some stand out from the crowd. Sam is one of those exceptional talents.”

Konstas’ incredible skills were evident during his BBL debut earlier this week. Competing against the Adelaide Strikers, the young cricketer from New South Wales scored a half-century off just 20 balls, making him the youngest player in the league’s history to achieve this remarkable feat. His fearless batting and poise under pressure garnered significant attention and heightened speculation about a potential Test debut.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan also commended Konstas, stating, “I think he is a tremendous talent with a bright future ahead.” Vaughan expressed to Fox Cricket, “If the Australian batting order experiences a few failures leading up to Sydney, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him debut at his home ground … I believe he could excel at the SCG.”

Bayliss’ admiration for Konstas extends beyond his batting prowess. He emphasized the young player’s mental toughness as a key differentiator.

“During my time as a Test coach, a player’s self-belief was a critical factor when considering them for a debut,” Bayliss elaborated. “Sometimes, there are doubts about certain players if they face failures—and they will encounter setbacks—but do they have the belief to bounce back? With some players, it’s uncertain, but with others, you just know they possess that mental strength.”

According to Bayliss, Konstas embodies that rare resilience and abundant belief. “Sam has a lot of hard work ahead, but his mindset is an exceptional starting point. While it doesn’t guarantee success, it’s a quality I’ve only seen in players who went on to achieve greatness.”

Konstas is now firmly in the spotlight, with many anticipating his selection for the Australian team soon. Thunder coach Bayliss acknowledged that he doesn’t expect to keep Konstas in the BBL squad for long.

“I don’t think we’ll have him for an extended period,” Bayliss noted. “Whether he is called up during this competition or the next, I suspect he won’t remain available for us for much longer.”

The Australian selectors, led by George Bailey, are under increasing pressure to address the issues within the national team’s top order, which has underperformed during the current series against India. With Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, and Marnus Labuschagne averaging just 14.40— the lowest for an Australian top three in a home Test summer since 1887/88—the opportunity is ripe for fresh talent like Konstas.

Before a potential Test debut, Konstas will have another chance to display his abilities in the Big Bash, as the Thunder prepare to face cross-town rivals Sydney Sixers at Engie Stadium on Saturday night.