Travis Head Predicts Sam Konstas to Return for WTC Final in Opening Role

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Rising Australian opener Sam Konstas is set to return to domestic cricket after missing out on the Test series in Sri Lanka. The 19-year-old, who made an impressive debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was left out of the playing XI against Sri Lanka.

Travis Head partnered Usman Khawaja at the top of the order in Konstas' place. However, Head believes Konstas could reclaim his spot as an opener in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa at Lord's on June 11.

Head, speaking to reporters in Galle, acknowledged Australia's selection dilemma but backed Konstas to return. "Most likely, I'd move to the middle order and Sam would take the opening role," Head said.

"But honestly, I'm glad I'm not the one making the selection decisions. Josh (Inglis) has had an incredible start, the team is in great form, and Greeny (Cameron Green) will be fit soon. It's going to be tough to fit everyone in, but that's exactly what we want."

Konstas burst onto the scene with a fluent half-century on his Boxing Day Test debut against India at the MCG. He further impressed in Sydney, helping Australia clinch the Border-Gavaskar series and book their place in the WTC Final.

Though he didn't feature in Sri Lanka, Head is convinced the young opener will be a key figure in Australian cricket. "For someone to come in and take charge the way he did in Melbourne, the confidence he shows is remarkable," Head remarked.

"It's great to have a young player around who is a bit naive but approaches the game the right way. He has a massive future with Australia. It will be interesting to see how he handles adversity over the years, but right now, it seems like he handles it really well."

While Australia aims for a 2-0 sweep in Sri Lanka, Konstas will focus on domestic cricket to stay in top form ahead of the WTC Final. With the selectors facing tough choices, his return could be crucial as Australia seeks the right balance for the title clash against South Africa.