Synopsis
Travis Head signals a return to the middle-order for the World Test Championship final, expecting Sam Konstas to resume his opening role alongside Usman Khawaja against South Africa. Head discusses the team's competitive dynamics and his batting position.Key Takeaways
- Travis Head likely to return to middle-order.
- Sam Konstas expected to resume opening position.
- Head scored a rapid half-century in the previous match.
- Team dynamics create healthy competition for spots.
- Head unlikely to open in Australia under seaming conditions.
New Delhi, Feb 4 (NationPress) Australia batter Travis Head has suggested a shift back to the middle-order for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord's, anticipating that young talent Sam Konstas will regain his opening position beside seasoned player Usman Khawaja for the pivotal match against South Africa.
Head supports Australia's daring choice to exclude Konstas from the initial Test against Sri Lanka by scoring a rapid half-century off just 35 balls as an opener, contributing to Australia's dominant win over the hosts.
His elevation to the opener role, alongside Konstas' exclusion and the introduction of debutant Josh Inglis, has ignited significant discussions in Australia. Nevertheless, Vice-Captain Head conveyed his belief that the 19-year-old Konstas could be in the lineup against South Africa at Lord's in June.
“Most likely I’ll revert to the middle-order and Sam would open, but I’m relieved I’m not a selector. Josh has had a remarkable start; the guys are performing well, and Cameron Green will be fit,” Head mentioned prior to Thursday’s second Test, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.
“It’s going to be challenging to secure a spot, which is what we desire. An Australian cricket team where it’s tough to get in, with everyone vying for positions, creates healthy pressure to maintain your place in every Test knowing there are competitors. We’re in a solid position; having seven or eight batters in contention is preferable to just three or four,” he elaborated.
Head emphasized that it’s improbable he’ll take on the opening role in Test matches under seaming conditions.
“That’s likely not the case given our recent direction. I’ve had discussions with Ron and Pat; they understand my stance and I’m prepared to fulfill any role they need. But I’m in the position they prefer me in. As long as I maintain consistency, that’s wonderful. However, it’s probably unlikely I would open in Australia considering our last two years. The middle-order seems to be my spot in Australia,” he stated.
