In an impressive display of resilience, Sam Konstas, the 20-year-old opener previously dropped from the Australian Test team, has rebounded with a century for New South Wales during the Sheffield Shield match against Queensland at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This performance marks a significant moment for Konstas as it builds confidence following a challenging international stint over the past year.
Konstas reached his century just before the tea interval on the opening day of the match, finishing the session at an unbeaten 107 runs. This achievement marks his fourth first-class century and his first in the Shield since a stellar run against South Australia in October 2024, which had initially earned him a spot in the national team.
The aggressive right-hander had previously shown promise while playing for Australia A against India A, scoring a century in September on a conducive batting surface in Lucknow. However, the expectations were much higher after his initial breakthrough into the Test squad during last summer, particularly following a disappointing tour of the West Indies where he averaged just 8.33 across three matches, managing only 50 runs in total. This performance ultimately led to his exclusion from the Ashes series.
In the game against Queensland, Konstas partnered with former Australia batter Kurtis Patterson, who remained not out at 49. Collectively, they steered New South Wales to a commanding position as the team reached 1-221 at the tea break.
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As the series progresses, Konstas is aware that continued strong performances will be essential for his potential recall to the Australian lineup, especially with the likes of Jake Weatherald and Travis Head currently consolidating their opening partnership in Perth. Queensland’s bowling attack was missing key pace bowlers Michael Neser and Xavier Bartlett, which may have provided Konstas and the NSW batting order with an opportunity to capitalize.
In a bit of unfortunate news for the home side, opening partner Matthew Gilkes was dismissed for 55 runs by veteran bowler Gurinder Sandhu, but Konstas’s strong form could be pivotal moving forward as the competition heats up.
