Australia's Sam Konstas leaves Sri Lanka tour for Sheffield Shield
What's the story
Australia cricketer Sam Konstas has left the ongoing Sri Lanka Test tour midway to play the Sheffield Shield for New South Wales.
Although he had a promising debut against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Konstas was left out due to his inexperience on spin-friendly Asian pitches.
The Australian team opted for Travis Head and Usman Khawaja as openers, while Josh Inglis scored a century on debut.
Return
Konstas to return for Sheffield Shield match against Queensland
As per reports, the Australian selectors decided to send Konstas back for New South Wales's next Sheffield Shield match against Queensland, starting Saturday.
"That's the plan. Hopefully, I can be back for the first game," Konstas told Sydney Morning Herald.
The decision comes as Australia have already reached the 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship final and lead the series 1-0, minimizing risks of him leaving.
Reflections
Konstas reflects on his experience and future plans
Konstas thanked his time with the squad and the opportunity to learn from seasoned players like Head, Steve Smith, and Khawaja.
He also stressed on the significance of knowing how to adapt to different playing conditions.
"It's been about understanding what works in these conditions, and hopefully I can emulate that after I get back to Sydney," he said.
Domestic return
Calls for Konstas's return to domestic cricket
Notably, the decision to send Konstas back was also influenced by growing demands for him to play state cricket, as he is not expected to feature in the second Test.
Former Australian captain Ian Healy and wicketkeeper-batter Brad Haddin have been vocal about the same.
Despite not being selected for the series opener, which Australia won decisively, Konstas accepted the decision and admired Head's performance as an opener.
Support
Head supports Konstas's potential role in WTC final
Travis Head has thrown his weight behind Konstas, saying he could open for Australia in the WTC final at Lord's against South Africa.
"Most likely I'd go back in the middle order and Sam would open," Head said ahead of the second Test.
He also hailed Konstas's confidence and potential, saying he has a "huge future" with Australian cricket.
Debut
Test debut in BGT 2024/25
Konstas first came into the limelight after his Test debut against India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Konstas's aggressive approach against the formidable Jasprit Bumrah and a heated moment with Virat Kohli, made headlines in Melbourne.
His fearless batting style was on full display during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, where he scored 60 off 65 balls against India.
A daring scoop shot against Bumrah underscored his confidence at this elite level of cricket.