AUS vs WI: Konstas Struggles in Debut But Gets McDonald’s Backing Ahead of Crucial Grenada Test against West Indies
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has thrown his support behind young batter Sam Konstas, calling for patience and understanding as the 19-year-old finds his footing in international cricket following a disappointing outing in the first Test against the West Indies at Kensington Oval.
Konstas, who had burst onto the scene with a confident half-century against India at the MCG, struggled to replicate that form in Bridgetown. Facing tricky conditions on a bowler-friendly pitch, the teenager managed just 3 and 5 in two innings, appearing unsure of his tempo at the crease.
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“It felt like he was stuck at times—overaggressive and then underplayed,” McDonald said, as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald. “It’s really that balance and tempo. He’s got that there, and that’s a step-up to Test cricket when the pressure’s on. He’s got a really good partner down the other end. All we ask for is a bit of patience and time with it.”
McDonald acknowledged Konstas’ struggles but emphasized the importance of learning through experience. “We’ve had some conversations around potentially, if you’re in that situation again, what does that look like? He knows his deficiencies. He’ll learn to play with what he’s got. These guys are on a journey. Some people get there faster than others.”
Despite the early batting collapses, Australia managed to seize control of the match thanks to crucial contributions from the middle and lower order. After being bowled out for 180 in the first innings and reduced to 65/4 in the second, a rescue act led by Travis Head (61), Beau Webster (63), and Alex Carey (65) lifted Australia to 310, turning the tide in their favour.
“We were definitely put under pressure throughout that whole game,” McDonald noted. “An incredible partnership from Travis and Beau navigated us through and gave us something to bowl at. The wicket surprised us—there was enough seam and variable bounce, which made it difficult for batting.”
Looking ahead to the second Test in Grenada, McDonald suggested the surface may again favour pace bowling. “It’s a step into the unknown in Grenada. We’ll make an educated guess as to what the surface may do. I think it could lend itself to being a pace bowling-dominated series if they keep the surfaces similar to that.”
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