New Delhi
Former Australia captain Mark Taylor has urged selectors to bring back young opener Sam Konstas for the upcoming West Indies Test series, starting June 26. Taylor’s suggestion comes after Australia’s top-order failed in the World Test Championship Final against South Africa, where they lost by five wickets at Lord’s.
With Steve Smith injured and coach Andrew McDonald hinting at changes, Taylor believes this is the right time to recall Konstas. The teenager had impressed on debut against India, scoring a quick 60 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and making 113 runs in two Tests. However, he was dropped for the Sri Lanka tour when Travis Head was promoted to open.
"David Warner retired two years ago, and we still haven’t found a solid replacement," Taylor said on Nine's Wide World of Sports. "Konstas plays in a more traditional way and deserves a chance."
Taylor also questioned the current form of senior opener Usman Khawaja, saying his performance against fast bowlers has declined. “Khawaja’s average drops to 25 without his 200 in Sri Lanka. That’s a concern.”
He added that Marnus Labuschagne’s recent struggles are also troubling. Taylor wants selectors to consider future talents like Nathan McSweeney as well.
With the Ashes approaching, Taylor believes Australia must fix their top-order issues soon. “We must pick our best team for now and prepare for the future. Konstas should open with Khawaja, but Khawaja is on notice too.”
Taylor ended by stressing the need for bold decisions in team selection.