Sam Konstas Sets Sights On All-Format Cricket Career, Recalls Mimicking English Legends

February 8, 2025: Australia’s young prodigy, Sam Konstas, has set his sights on becoming an all-format player after being overlooked for the second Test against Sri Lanka in the subcontinent. Despite the setback, the 19-year-old opener is determined to make his mark in international cricket and follow in the footsteps of legends like Travis Head.

Konstas made a stunning debut during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG against India, where he scored a swashbuckling 60 (65) in his first innings. His display of unorthodox strokeplay, including a memorable ramp shot off Jasprit Bumrah, caught the attention of the cricketing world. Konstas, known for his fearless batting, believes that the opportunity to work with established stars like Travis Head and Steve Smith will only help him grow as a player.

“I want to test myself and become an all-format player one day,” Konstas shared in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald. “Travis Head is a legend of the game, and the way he goes about it is pretty simple, he takes on the bowlers. I’m very lucky at my age to learn from these guys and hopefully, I can build on that.”

His time in Sri Lanka, where he was sent home before the second Test, provided Konstas with valuable insights into the game. While he may have missed out on a place in the playing XI, Konstas was able to learn from watching the likes of Head and Smith. “I don’t think I’m that good at my sweeps or reverse [sweeps], but that’s something to work on when I’m back in Sydney,” Konstas said. “Understanding your strengths and trying to stick to them as long as possible is key.”

Konstas hopes his performance in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s could pave the way for greater opportunities. “It is still to be seen if I’ll be in talks for the WTC final,” he admitted, “but I’m hoping I can contribute to the team’s success.”

Looking to the future, Konstas also hopes to play a part in the Ashes, a series he has long admired. “As a kid, we used to mimic some of the England bowlers like Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson during backyard Ashes series with my brothers,” Konstas recalled. “Hopefully, I get that opportunity to play over there.”

Having already gained invaluable experience in England during an Under-19 series, Konstas is optimistic about the challenges ahead. “It’s invaluable to have that experience,” he said, “Hopefully, a county team can pick me up.”

With the backing of the Australian selectors and mentors like Head and Smith, Konstas’ journey toward becoming an all-format player looks promising, and his ambitions to compete in iconic series like the Ashes may soon come to fruition.