Ricky Ponting Questions Konstas’ Survival as Test Opener After Mixed Debut

Former Australian Skipper Advises Youngster Sam Konstas to Adapt After Rollercoaster Performances Against India

New Delhi, January 10: Former Australian captain and ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting expressed skepticism about Sam Konstas’ ability to thrive as a Test opener if the young prodigy continues his aggressive approach, as seen during his debut at the Boxing Day Test.

Konstas made headlines with his audacious batting against India, hitting a ramp shot for a towering six over Rishabh Pant off Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world’s premier pacers. The youngster raced to a quick 60 off 65 balls before being dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja.

However, Konstas’ aggressive style proved inconsistent. In the second innings, Bumrah’s perfectly pitched inswinger dismantled his stumps. During the Sydney Test, Konstas struggled again, falling victim to Mohammed Siraj in the first innings and Prasidh Krishna in the second.

Ponting’s Take on Konstas’ Approach

On the ICC Review, Ponting analyzed Konstas’ performances, praising his flair but warning of the risks associated with such an approach:
“I don’t think he can survive as a Test opening batsman playing like that all the time. He’ll learn a lot from these games, not just as a batsman but as an international sportsman. It’s a big stage, and while he enjoyed the MCG, young players often take time to figure out who they are and what they need to succeed at this level.”

Ponting emphasized the importance of adapting to Test cricket’s demands, urging Konstas to evolve his technique and temperament to ensure long-term success.

Future Prospects

Despite inconsistent performances following his MCG heroics, Konstas’ potential has earned him a spot in Australia’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test tour of Sri Lanka, starting at the end of this month.

Australia Squad for Sri Lanka

• Steve Smith (c)
• Sean Abbott
• Scott Boland
• Alex Carey
• Cooper Connolly
• Travis Head (vc)
• Josh Inglis
• Usman Khawaja
• Sam Konstas
• Matt Kuhnemann
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Nathan Lyon
• Nathan McSweeney
• Todd Murphy
• Mitchell Starc
• Beau Webster

Conclusion

As Sam Konstas gears up for the challenges of international cricket, the young batter’s journey will depend on how effectively he balances his natural aggression with the discipline required to excel at the highest level.