Konstas on his emotions in the first two tests of his career as he expresses keeness to settle into Test cricket.
Konstas on his emotions as he reflects on managing nerves in his early Test outings.
Sam Konstas found that controlling his emotions when playing in front of a large crowd at the MCG last December was more difficult than batting in his first taste of Test cricket. He is only 19 years old and is still learning how to control his emotions, have faith in his abilities, and remain composed in the face of worldwide competition.
Selectors have declared that Konstas and Josh Inglis will rejoin the team for Australia’s first Test match against the West Indies in Bridgetown, which starts on June 25. Due to a dislocated finger, Steven Smith was ruled out, and Marnus Labuschagne was dropped.
“It was my first few Test matches, and the emotions probably got to me with the crowd,” Konstas told reporters in Barbados, reflecting on his debut series against India which started with his 60 off 65 balls at the MCG. “But having a bit of time off to reflect and strengthen my game has helped.”
After missing out on playing in Sri Lanka, where Travis Head opened in a tactical adjustment, and barely missing out on the starting lineup for the World Test Championship final due to Labuschagne’s promotion, this will be his third Test cap. After arriving in the Caribbean, Konstas had a week to get ready for the Barbados Test. He talked about how his personal journal, which he began in school, was a crucial tool for going over the fundamentals.
“The diary’s been important,” Konstas, who has Test cap No. 468 tattooed on his forearm, said. “Just reflecting on games, going back to my checkpoints, especially when you’re overseas. It helps me get grounded again.”
He also credited much of his early learning to the senior players in the Australian squad. “I’m just trying to control my breath and have a good relationship with my batting partner to talk about things and how to go through, especially heated moments, when the game changes,” he said.
“I always try to get advice from Uzi [Usman Khawaja], Marnus, Smith, just seeing how they go about things. I’m lucky to be around them, especially at 19. Playing for your country, travelling the world, it really is a dream come true.”
“For me, I just hope to grab an opportunity because it’s such a strong side. I’m very grateful for that.”