Barbados, June 22: For Australia’s rising star Sam Konstas, it’s not the swing or pace that’s tested him most in the early days of his Test career—it’s the emotional whirlwind of stepping onto the grandest stage of them all.
Still only 19, Konstas reflected on the psychological challenge of playing in front of a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground last December during his debut against India.
“It was my first few Test matches, and the emotions probably got to me with the crowd,” he admitted while speaking to reporters in Barbados. His impressive 60 off 65 on debut was a bright spark, but the teenager says it’s the time off since then—spent reflecting and fine-tuning his game—that has helped him regroup.
Konstas is now set to feature in Australia’s first Test against the West Indies in Bridgetown, starting June 25, with the national selectors confirming his inclusion alongside wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis. The squad reshuffle comes on the back of Steven Smith’s injury and Marnus Labuschagne’s omission, giving Konstas another opportunity to stake his claim in a team still searching for stability at the top of the order following David Warner’s retirement.
Although he missed out on playing in Sri Lanka and the World Test Championship final, Konstas enters the Caribbean series with renewed focus.
A major source of that grounding has been his personal diary, a habit he developed during his school days. “The diary’s been important,” he revealed.
“It helps me go back to the basics, reflect on past games and regain clarity, especially when you’re playing overseas.”
With Test cap No. 468 tattooed on his forearm, Konstas is keenly aware of the honour and pressure that comes with the Baggy Green. But he’s not facing it alone. Drawing wisdom from seasoned teammates like Usman Khawaja, Smith, and Labuschagne, the young right-hander is learning to manage the game’s tempo, breathe through pressure moments, and keep communication flowing with his batting partners. “It really is a dream come true,” he said. “Playing for your country, travelling the world—at 19, I’m just trying to grab the opportunity and learn from the best.”
Though the final batting order is yet to be confirmed, Konstas is expected to open in the three-Test series, a golden chance to cement his place ahead of this year’s Ashes. With Australia cycling through options since Warner’s exit, the Caribbean tour could prove pivotal in shaping the team’s long-term top-order stability.
Following the first Test in Bridgetown, the action will move to Grenada from July 3 and then conclude in Jamaica from July 12. For Konstas, it’s more than just another series—it’s the next chapter in a dream that’s just beginning. (Agencies)
