McDonald Backs Konstas, Anticipates No Changes for Final Test

GRENADA: Australian head coach Andrew McDonald voiced his support for young batsman Sam Konstas on Tuesday, suggesting that it is premature to assess him critically despite his difficulties in the Test series against the West Indies.

Konstas posted a score of 25 in the initial innings of the second Test in Grenada but was dismissed without scoring in the subsequent innings.

During a media interaction prior to the Test in Jamaica, McDonald expressed confidence in Konstas, noting that the player is still adjusting to the demands of Test cricket.

“With just eight innings across four games, it’s likely too soon to form a definitive judgment,” McDonald commented.

“The hurdles in Test cricket extend beyond mere skill or technique; they involve managing pressure and navigating the challenges inherent in the environment. He remains in the process of establishing himself.”

McDonald highlighted Konstas’s progress in Grenada, particularly in how he initiated his innings.

“It represented a slight advancement. In the first innings, his approach to the initial phase of his batting demonstrated a positive mindset and enhanced composure. This was an improvement over the previous match, where he appeared uncertain between attacking and defending.”

Konstas is anticipated to participate in Australia A’s tour of India scheduled for late September and will be available for the early rounds of the Sheffield Shield in October.

“Domestic cricket offers a significant opportunity at the beginning of the season, particularly before any major Test series,” he stated.

McDonald underscored that this period of domestic competition will be vital for several players aiming to secure their positions.

“The Australia A matches against Sri Lanka A in Darwin are also under close observation. It’s about identifying who excels when given the chance.”

McDonald clarified that while performances during the Caribbean tour might not directly reflect Ashes conditions, the psychological demands of Test cricket offer significant learning experiences.

“The variable bounce and lateral movement encountered here differ from Australian conditions, although Perth might offer some similarities. However, the initial Shield matches will likely provide a more relevant preview of what we can expect in the Ashes.”

McDonald verified that the team is not expected to undergo any changes for the final Test, which will mark fast bowler Mitchell Starc’s 100th appearance in the format.

“Whenever the top order has struggled, the middle order has compensated, and vice versa. While we aim for greater run production from the top order, as the players themselves acknowledge, the team has still achieved dominant victories in both Tests,” he concluded.