Shipperd: Konstas Continues to Evolve with Each Match

New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) New South Wales (NSW) coach Greg Shipperd opines that the young Australian Test opener Sam Konstas is still in the process of refining his game and gains valuable insights from every match in the Sheffield Shield thus far.

Konstas recently scored 50 off 107 balls at the WACA Ground, keeping NSW in contention for this season's Sheffield Shield final ahead of their day-night showdown against Tasmania starting on Saturday.

He impressed in his debut series against India, scoring 113 in his first two Tests with an average of 28.25, including a thrilling 60 off 65 balls on his debut during the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. However, with Travis Head promoted to open the batting on the tour to Sri Lanka, Konstas was sent home without further opportunities.

"It was a pivotal innings for us, as the West Australians have a formidable attack. We were aware that losing early wickets could lead to a perilous situation with (Corey) Rocchiccioli and (Lance) Morris ready to support the initial assault," Shipperd noted.

"Sammy focused and adapted his play to the conditions and the game situation, which was a significant progression for him. He is still figuring out his game while traveling and playing at unfamiliar venues, so he is in a phase of learning while performing commendably for us."

"His average for the season stands at 41, with three centuries across both formats, and we are genuinely pleased with his growth. However, we recognize that he has had a remarkably unique beginning to his career, particularly this season with his elevation to the Australian side. He is managing this experience and learning from every match," Shipperd commented as reported by cricket.com.au.

Shipperd also expressed that Konstas’ aggressive and risk-taking playing style still holds value in the longer format. "It proved successful in the Prime Minister's XI, during his debut innings for the national team, and he maintained a similar approach when scoring a century in one-day cricket," he stated.

"He also unsettled Morris in our first Sheffield Shield match against WA this season at the SCG. There are occasions for unconventional play. However, as a general guideline, we encourage him, as many seasoned experts do, to adopt a more consistent strategy."

"It's crucial for him to identify the right moments in the innings and consider the team's needs during those phases. We are optimistic that he is learning with each game and evaluating these factors as his innings progress," he explained.

Shipperd concluded by endorsing Konstas to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order for Australia against South Africa in the 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord's in June. "We hope he finishes the season strongly and focuses on that challenge. I would be very surprised if the Australian selectors weren't seriously considering him for that opening position in that match."