BGT: Hussey Praises Konstas After First Encounter with Youngster's Batting Skills

New Delhi, Dec 21 (NationPress) The 19-year-old Australian opener Sam Konstas prepares for what could be a remarkable Test debut in the prestigious Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. His selection, described as an "exciting" chance by cricket icon Mike Hussey, comes at the cost of Nathan McSweeney, who has been removed from the squad after only three Tests—a choice that has elicited varied responses from both players and analysts.

McSweeney’s removal follows a series of disappointing performances since his debut last month, where he could not exceed 10 runs in five out of six innings. Although the 25-year-old displayed potential, his failure to adjust to the demands of opening in Test cricket, especially against a moving ball, proved detrimental.

Head selector George Bailey acknowledged that it was a "really hard decision" to drop McSweeney, particularly since he was thrust into an unfamiliar opener's role despite not being specialized in that position at the domestic level.

“I get the dream come true, and then it didn’t quite work out the way I wanted,” he shared with 7 News Adelaide. “But it’s all part of it, I’ll get my head down and get back in the nets and work really hard, and hopefully be ready for the next opportunity. It’s the game we’re in; if you don’t seize your chance and aren’t performing as well as you’d like, your place is never guaranteed.

“I missed out a few times with the bat and unfortunately wasn’t able to take my opportunity, but as I said I’ll work really hard to ensure that if the chance presents itself again, I’m definitely prepared.”

The decision to drop McSweeney has split opinions among Australian cricket legends. Mike Hussey expressed his sympathy for the young batter, recognizing the challenging conditions for openers this summer.

“I really feel for McSweeney. I think it’s tough on him. Tough call,” Hussey stated on Fox Cricket. “I don’t know (if it was the right call). It’s a tough one on him. It’s not easy. The ball’s been moving around quite a lot for the openers. A lot of batters at the top of the order have been struggling.

“Let’s consider the other side, and it’s incredibly exciting for a player like Sam Konstas.”

Conversely, Michael Clarke was more critical of the selectors, asserting that McSweeney wasn’t afforded a fair chance to establish himself.

“This could end Nathan McSweeney’s career. They picked him, he deserved the summer. What happens if Usman Khawaja retires in two Tests? Does McSweeney come back, or does he go to the back of the queue?” Clarke queried on his Beyond23 podcast.

The focus now shifts to Sam Konstas, the teenage sensation who has been recognized for his outstanding performances across various formats. His recent form, highlighted by a composed 56-run innings for the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League, solidified his case for national selection.

Hussey, who observed Konstas’ innings live, lauded the young player's composure and aggression.

“I was very impressed. It was the first time I’d seen him live,” Hussey remarked regarding Konstas’ half-century for the Thunder.

“What an occasion to make your Test debut. Boxing Day Test against India, opening the batting, and he’s just 19. Wow. What a story,” Hussey added.

Konstas is anticipated to inject fresh energy and audacity into Australia’s faltering top order, which has faced significant challenges this summer.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist believes Konstas’ fearless performance in the BBL match against the Adelaide Strikers secured his Test call-up.

“It’s that innings that tipped it in his favour. His aggression, his desire to score—it’s been terribly challenging for that Australian top order, and I think he’s prepared to tackle it,” Gilchrist noted on Fox Cricket.