‘Far out, I’m in the squad’: Rollercoaster for Konstas as Test debut awaits

Sam Konstas was actually in the nets prepping for his Sydney derby in the Big Bash League when chief selector George Bailey tried to call him the first time — and since then it’s all been a blur for the 19-year-old as he stands on the precipice of a Test debut with Australia.

“I was just focused on this game, and then he [Bailey] called me after training… I was like far out, I’m in the squad,” Konstas laughed after the Thunder’s epic last-ball loss at Olympic Park.

“He said ‘Congratulations, can’t wait to have you.’ It’s amazing, I’ve always dreamed about it.”

“It was a bit unexpected. But very privileged to get the opportunity,” he added.

If that feels like a calm answer, it’s likely because it very much is: Konstas has been cool as a cucumber all summer despite the headlines, media interest, and general storm floating around if – basically when – he’d get his chance at a Baggy Green. Even after he got Bailey’s call, it’s all been simple celebrations and calm days.

“I just had dinner with the family (on Friday) and it was pretty chilled,” he said, before admitting it did get a bit emotional eventually.

“Mum was crying. Mum and Dad and my brothers, [I want to thank them for] all their sacrifices, taking me to training, throwing me balls, experiencing the journey through highs and lows.

“Just to give something back to them was very special. I can’t wait to have them in Melbourne.”

“Stoked” Konstas, who said he “can’t wait to meet the [Australian] team” this week, got several other high-profile calls he took just as calmly (at least, according to the 19-year-old after his three-ball, zero-run BBL spell on Saturday). Steve Smith and skipper Pat Cummins were among those who congratulated him once the news broke.

“Pat Cummins called me this morning and the coach, and they’re going to talk about my role in the team in the next few days. And then Steve Smith congratulated me so I can’t wait to get amongst it,” Konstas said on his recent phone calls.

“I’m pretty chilled, I’ll be able to sleep and just rinse and repeat. Get my prep ready and see what happens if I am in the team.

“As a kid, you have always dreamed of the moment, and it is very rare to get your Baggy Green.”

Nothing’s for certain of course, with Bailey, Cummins, and the selectors having a wealth of talent in the squad from which to build their starting XI as they head into a must-win Test match against India at the MCG. With the series locked at 1-1 following Brisbane’s draw, Konstas knows they may lean on experience.

That said, if he gets to play, he says, it’s going to be very, very special.

“It’s a huge honour if I do get in. Big crowd, sell out, [a] different vibe for my first opportunity.”