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Axed Opener Sam Konstas Handed PM’s XI Chance Against England

The Manuka Oval showcase offers a short-term route to press for a recall after his first-Test omission.

Overview

  • Konstas was left out of Australia’s squad for the Ashes opener, with Jake Weatherald called in and likely to make his Test debut.
  • He has been selected for the Prime Minister’s XI two-day day-night match against an England XI at Manuka Oval on November 29-30, captained by Peter Handscomb and coached by Tim Paine.
  • His lean run continued with 50 runs from six innings on the West Indies tour and 161 from eight Sheffield Shield innings, followed by 17 in an under-21s outing for Sutherland.
  • Last summer he struck 107 off 97 in the PM’s XI, a performance that preceded his Boxing Day Test debut.
  • Australia’s attack for the first Test is depleted, with Pat Cummins, Sean Abbott and Josh Hazlewood unavailable, and selectors are not expected to add another fast bowler for Hazlewood’s spot.