Sam Konstas has come under heavy scrutiny from the Australian media and fans after his horror show in the first Test against the West Indies at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.
The youngster failed to leave a mark on either inning, as he was dismissed for single-digit scores by Shamar Joseph.
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This was the opener's first appearance for Australia after being dropped from the Sri Lanka tour and later in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025.
Konstas' last outing was a mixed one, as he bagged one half-century against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25.
Meanwhile, Australian head coach Andrew McDonald has come forward to defend the youngster's flop show in the ongoing series, calling for more patience.
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Australia coach defends Sam Konstas after WI vs AUS flop show
The Australian coach defended the 19-year-old by saying that every batsman has his own unique technique, and none of them are perfect.
Speaking to the Australian Assoiated Press, McDonald said, "He knows his deficiencies. But, from a batting perspective, I encourage all players to learn to play with their deficiencies. I don’t think there’s such a thing as a perfect technique. If that’s what you’re looking for, then I think you’re looking in the wrong place."
Konstas seemed to be a bit unsure about how to approach the game, which saw him playing a few unnecessary shots that ultimately resulted in his wicket on both occasions.
"It’s learning from previous events and trying to implement a way through that. It felt like he was stuck at times, and he was over-aggressive and then (he) underplayed. It’s really that balance and tempo ... that’s a step up to Test cricket," McDonald added.
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However, the Australian coach is hopeful of the youngster's progress in the longer format, as he will be having an experienced partner in the form of Usman Khawaja, who has been in and around the same situation but stuck around and made a name of his own.
"He’s got a really good partner down the other end (Usman Khawaja). That, over time, I think, will play out. That’s all we ask for - a bit of patience and time with a young player coming into Test cricket."
It will be interesting to see how Konstas performs in the all-important second Test vs. the Windies at the Grenada National Cricket Stadium, as Pat Cummins and co. look to seal the series with a comprehensive victory.