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yesterday

McDonald and Ponting Back Konstas and Khawaja Despite Caribbean Struggles

Their Ashes spots now hinge on Sheffield Shield form ahead of squad announcements for the home series.

Cricket - World Test Championship Final - Australia Practice - Lord's Cricket Ground, London, Britain - June 9, 2025 Australia's Sam Konstas during practice Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers/File Photo
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Overview

  • Australia completed a 3-0 Test whitewash of the West Indies but openers Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja averaged just 8.33 and 19.5 respectively.
  • Konstas recorded the lowest opener average on a West Indies tour since 1984, underscoring the challenge posed by seaming, variable pitches.
  • Coach Andrew McDonald defended the value of Test exposure for young players and signalled faith in retaining the existing opening pair.
  • Former captain Ricky Ponting also endorsed keeping Konstas, Khawaja and versatile batter Cameron Green as Australia’s top three.
  • Selectors will assess performances in the upcoming Sheffield Shield season before finalising the opening combination for the November home series.