Sam Konstas will make his Test debut for Australia on Boxing Day against India, with coach Andrew McDonald confirming the 19-year-old’s selection. Konstas, who will become the fourth-youngest Australian to debut, was informed of his call-up by selector Tony Dodemaide earlier in the day. McDonald expressed excitement over Konstas’ opportunity, praising his ability to put pressure on opponents and his impressive domestic form.
Meanwhile, Travis Head faces a fitness test on his injured quad. After suffering a minor strain during Australia’s second innings in Brisbane, Head did not field in the brief second bowling innings. He underwent a short net session on Tuesday, with McDonald expressing confidence that Head will be fit to play, although the final decision on his fitness will be made closer to the match.
Australia is set to make at least two changes, with Konstas replacing Nathan McSweeney and Scott Boland stepping in for the injured Josh Hazlewood. McDonald also confirmed that Mitchell Marsh, who had been dealing with back issues, is fully fit and ready to bowl in this Test. The coach added that Marsh will play a more significant role with the ball in this match than in previous ones.
While it hasn’t been confirmed, it seems unlikely that debutants like Beau Webster or Josh Inglis will feature in the Boxing Day Test. McDonald also mentioned that Jhye Richardson, who trained with the squad this week, could be called upon in Sydney if the Melbourne Test extends into a fifth day, with Australia’s bowlers possibly requiring fresh legs.
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