Test bolter Sam Konstas has opened up on the moment he found out he was in line for a potential Boxing Day debut, and the classy act that followed from the man he replaced.
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Konstas was batting in the nets when he got the call from Australian selector George Bailey.
“I was so thrilled,” he told Fox Cricket.
“Called my parents straight away … Mum was in tears so I was telling her not to cry. Dad was super proud.
“It’s been an amazing journey. All the ups and down – very grateful for their sacrifices.
“They’ve been great support to me.”
Konstas will link up with the 15-man Australian squad on Sunday after taking part in the BBL’s Sydney Smash.
While it wasn’t his night on Saturday, falling for a third ball duck, the New South Welshman spoke to Fox Cricket about the incredible act from the man he replaced, Nathan McSweeney.
“Nathan McSweeney is a very good player in all three formats – he actually congratulated me this morning so we’re very close mates,” he shared.
“I wish him all the best.”
McSweeney, Konstas and his Thunder teammate Cam Bancroft had been locked in a battle for the Test opener spot left vacant by fellow BBL teammate David Warner.
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While McSweeney got the nod for the first three Tests, he didn’t do enough to hold his spot according to the Australian selectors.
Instead, they’ve turned to Konstas who earlier this year became the youngest player to score back-to-back centuries in a Sheffield Shield game since Ricky Ponting.
Should Konstas get the nod to debut as expected, he’ll become the youngest Australian batsman to do so in Tests in 71 years.
“It will be a huge honour debuting. A dream come true. I think it’s a sell out already (at the MCG),” he said.
“I think from memory (I started playing) maybe four or five years old.
“Dad would always train me with my older brother Billy and Johnny my twin.
“He’s retired now my dad. I think I’ve hurt his shoulder!
“I’m very excited (to take on India). I want to be challenged.”
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And Konstas says he’ll hold no fear facing the Indian attack.
“I’ve got a few plans against those bowlers. Feeling like I’m moving really nice and hopefully I get that opportunity,” he said.
“I’m just going to react to the ball and show a bit of intent and put a bit of pressure back on the bowlers.”
The Fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on December 26.
The series is currently tied 1-1.
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