Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has voiced strong criticism over the decision to drop rising star Sam Konstas from the squad for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Despite making an impressive debut in the Boxing Day Test against India, the 19-year-old was omitted as selectors opted for a reshuffled batting lineup.
Australia started strongly in the first innings on Wednesday, with Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja smashing centuries to propel the team to a commanding 330-2 at the close of play on Day One. However, Konstas’s absence raised eyebrows, particularly given his standout performance in recent matches.
Instead of retaining the young batter, selectors moved Travis Head up the order to open alongside Khawaja. Head made a decent contribution, scoring 57 before being dismissed by Prabath Jayasuriya, caught by Dinesh Chandimal at long-on.
Speaking on Channel 7, Ponting expressed disappointment with the decision, stating, “I don’t like it, to be honest. I just expected Konstas would play and open the batting.”
Konstas had made a strong impression in his brief Test career, scoring 60 runs in his debut innings at the MCG and adding 25 in Sydney. His aggressive, fearless style had already drawn praise from cricket fans and experts, with a notable on-field exchange against Indian legend Virat Kohli adding to his growing reputation.
Ponting believes the Sri Lanka tour would have been an ideal opportunity for Australia to assess Konstas’ ability in challenging conditions. “If he is the player we all think he is, I would have loved to have seen him work out a way to play spin in tough conditions in Sri Lanka over the next couple of weeks,” he said.
Despite his omission, Konstas reportedly decided stride. Australian selector Tony Dodemaide revealed the young batter’s reaction when informed of the decision: “He was like: ‘Oh yeah mate, no stress. I get it.'”
Dodemaide explained that Australia prioritizes experience for the Sri Lanka series, given their 14-year wait for a Test victory in the country. “The way we structured in India was very effective with Travis at the top, and that’s where his value is. That created an opportunity lower down the order for Josh Inglis, who we felt has a very proactive game and deserved that chance.”
While Konstas has yet to gain experience in subcontinental conditions, selectors see his presence on tour as an investment in the future. “He’ll learn quickly, and the opportunity to have him here, spending time around Smith, Khawaja, and Labuschagne, is invaluable. We’re looking at succession planning, and he staked a claim.”
Though Konstas won’t feature in the opening Test, Australian fans can expect to see more of him shortly as selectors prepare for a natural transition in the squad over the coming years.
A Rising Star with Proud Heritage
Born and raised in Kogarah, Sydney, Konstas has Greek heritage, a background that has played a strong role in shaping his identity both on and off the field. Known for his work ethic, passion, and fearless attitude—traits often attributed to his cultural roots—he continues to be a player to watch in Australian cricket. His journey may have hit a temporary hurdle, but with talent, resilience, and a bright future ahead, cricket fans can expect to see much more of Sam Konstas in the years to come.