Sam Konstas breaks into Australia A squad to face India A ahead of Test summer
Cricket Australia, on Monday (October 14), announced the A squad to take on their Indian counterparts in two four-day fixtures ahead of the blockbuster Test series between the senior teams. Opener Sam Konstas, 19, who scored a century for New South Wales in the recent Sheffield Shield fixture, has broken into the squad.
With Cameron Green ruled out of the entire summer and Steven Smith set to return to No. 4, two spots have opened up in the Test side. Smith, who had opened in the earlier two series, has left the spot vacated. Hence, Sam Konstas has an opportunity to make that place his own and partner Usman Khawaja in the series against India. However, he will face competition from Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft.
All-rounder Nathan McSweeney will captain the side, with Jimmy Peirson and Josh Philippe as keepers. Josh Inglis was unavailable after being included in the squad for the ODI series against Pakistan. Test regulars Michael Neser and Scott Boland will get an opportunity to strengthen their cases to be included in the playing XI for the series against India. Neser will particularly look to further his case as an all-rounder in the side.
As far as the spin-bowling department goes, Corey Rocchiccioli and Todd Murphy have earned the nod to be included as the second spinner in the Test squad apart from Nathan Lyon.
Australia A squad: Nathan McSweeney (c), Cameron Bancroft, Scott Boland, Jordan Buckingham, Cooper Connolly, Ollie Davies, Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Michael Neser, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Jimmy Peirson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Mark Steketee, Beau Webster.
"It will be a great opportunity for these players to shine against a strong Test nation" - Australia chief selector
Australia chief selector George Bailey stated that they have picked players based on domestic performances and backed them to showcase their skills against India A. He said, as quoted by cricket.com.au:
"As always with Australia A selection we have picked a side we hope can present performances which are compelling for the upcoming Test summer, whilst also rewarding players for strong domestic form in roles we see as being important further afield.
"It will be a great opportunity for these players to shine against a strong Test nation looking to prepare for what is going to be a captivating summer of Test cricket."
Australia A v India A schedule:
October 31-November 3: First four-day match, Mackay
November 7-10: Second four-day match, Melbourne