‘Small Step Forward’ for Sam Konstas, but Ashes Door Open for Domestic Batters – McDonald

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has offered cautious encouragement for young batter Sam Konstas after another mixed performance in the second Test against the West Indies, while highlighting the upcoming domestic season and Australia A fixtures as prime opportunities for other batters to stake a claim for Ashes selection.

Konstas managed 25 runs in the first innings in Grenada but fell for a duck in the second, leaving his Test record after four matches still a work in progress. He will retain his place for the final Test at Sabina Park in Jamaica – the first-ever day-night Test at the venue – giving him another chance to impress selectors ahead of the home Ashes series later this year.

“Four games in, eight innings – it’s probably early for anyone to judge, really,” McDonald said. “He’s a player finding his feet in the environment. It’s not just about skill or technique; it’s about dealing with the moments, the pressure, and everything else that comes with playing Test cricket.”

McDonald noted some progress in Konstas’ first innings in Grenada, pointing out improved movement and intent at the crease compared to previous outings.

Looking ahead, McDonald emphasized the importance of domestic performances in the lead-up to the Ashes. Konstas is expected to take part in the Australia A tour of India in September and be available for the opening rounds of the Sheffield Shield in October. Australia A is currently hosting Sri Lanka A in Darwin, with selectors monitoring closely.

“There’s great opportunity in domestic cricket at the start of the season,” McDonald said. “We saw it last year before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy – players put their hands up. There’s always speculation, but we’re confident in the squad we have right now.”

He also downplayed the relevance of the Caribbean tour conditions to Ashes preparation, noting the Tests have been dominated by pace and unpredictable bounce – conditions not typically mirrored in Australia.

“What we’re seeing here is people getting exposed at Test level. And within that exposure, the mental challenges of Test cricket are real.”

While Australia has emerged as comfortable winners in both Tests – with West Indies folding in just 34.3 and 33.4 overs respectively in their second innings – questions remain around the top-order. Usman Khawaja has struggled, and Konstas’ spot is far from cemented. However, Cameron Green’s half-century offered some relief.

“For every failure in the top order, the middle has found a way, and vice versa,” McDonald said. “Would we like more output from the top? No doubt. But the players want that too – and the runs will come.”

Mitchell Starc is set to play his 100th Test in Jamaica, and McDonald said the XI is expected to remain unchanged, barring late fitness concerns. A decision on whether Marnus Labuschagne will stay with the squad or be released to play for Glamorgan or Australia A is pending.

Labuschagne may also be given time off ahead of Australia’s ODI series against South Africa in August.

Australia lead the three-match series 2–0, with the final Test set to begin this week at Sabina Park, Kingston.