AUS vs IND: Sam Konstas’ debut for Boxing Day Test confirmed, but Travis Head’s inclusion looms over uncertainty

As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024–25) continues, hosts Australia and visiting India are busy preparing for their matchup in the fourth Test of the series. On December 26, the two teams will square off at the famed Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Youngster Sam Konstas will make his debut in the forthcoming MCG Test, head coach Andrew McDonald said ahead of the fourth Test. On “Boxing Day” against India, the 19-year-old will make history as the fourth youngest Australian to wear the Baggy Green at the age of 19 years and 85 days.

McDonald stated that Sam Konstas will make his Australia debut, but the rest of the lineup will be announced during the pre-game news conference by captain Pat Cummins.

“We stated early in the summer that we wouldn’t back down and that age was not a factor. He has demonstrated a variety of shots and the capacity to exert pressure on opponents, and he is given his chance. We’re ecstatic for him,” McDonald said.

Has he been formally irritated? I’m uncertain: McDonald, the head coach

Additionally, there was still considerable doubt about Travis Head, the ace batter, being included in the lineup even after Konstas’ debut was established. Notably, Head did not field in Australia’s second innings with the ball after suffering a slight quad strain while batting in Brisbane’s second innings. When discussing his level of fitness, Andrew McDonald disclosed that the star batter still has to improve on a few areas.

Does he have any issues to resolve? He has, indeed. You would have noticed that, then. Right now, there is no cause for concern. Has he been formally irritated? I don’t know. He said, “I’m fairly certain he’ll play, even though I didn’t see the back end of his training session there.”

“Clearly his abilities are in good shape since he looked good holding the bat. It will essentially be the risk that comes with that. McDonald came to the conclusion that he had a little quad strain.