New Delhi, Dec 25 (NationPress) Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has expressed his belief that Sam Konstas possesses the capability to make a significant impact during his Test debut against India, emphasizing that the young batter has the right mindset to demonstrate his talent on a global stage.

At just 19 years old, Konstas is preparing to step onto the field for his first Test match against India in the Boxing Day Test, which kicks off on Thursday at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, where over 90,000 fans are expected to cheer. He has been included in the squad, taking the place of Nathan McSweeney.

A key player in Australia’s victorious 2024 U19 Men’s World Cup team, Konstas recently made headlines by scoring a century while playing for the Prime Minister's XI against India in a warm-up pink-ball game at Manuka Oval, Canberra. In his first-class career spanning 11 matches, he has accumulated 718 runs at an average of 42.2, including two centuries and three half-centuries.

“I’ve seen plenty of talent, and there’s no doubt about it. The way he performed in the PM's XI match (scoring 107 against India), along with his approach in his first BBL game, shows promise,” stated Ponting.

“While I understand the formats vary, it’s evident that his talent shines through, coupled with his determination. He possesses a healthy confidence, knowing he’s good and is eager to showcase that to the world,” added Ponting during his appearance on The ICC Review.

Discussing the challenge Konstas will face against India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, Ponting remarked, "There’s certainly a challenge ahead. It’s a Test match. It’s your debut. You’re up against some of the top bowlers globally, and it doesn’t get any bigger in world cricket at this moment."

“It’s akin to any other nation debuting an opening batsman against our bowling lineup, especially with Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood in the mix. Bumrah has emerged as the standout performer and arguably the leading fast bowler in Test cricket right now. Thus, Konstas will undoubtedly face a formidable challenge,” he continued.

Ponting also conveyed his confidence in Konstas to rise to the occasion, particularly with the five-match series tied at 1-1. “I don’t believe he’ll be overly concerned. Instead, I think he’ll be energized by the challenge, eager to exert pressure through his playing style.

“He isn’t the type to linger at five runs off fifty balls. He’s either going to be aggressive or he might exit earlier. He’ll strive to impose his presence on the game, which is one of the qualities that many admire about him,” Ponting concluded.