Sam Konstas Trusts His Inner Circle Ahead of Ashes Push

Sam Konstas is set for a defining few months in his young career as he looks to nail down his place as Australia’s Test opener before the Ashes. After enduring a tough tour of the West Indies, the 19-year-old is determined to block out the noise and lean on the guidance of his trusted mentors and teammates as he prepares for a crucial run of games.

The Challenge After the West Indies Tour

Konstas’ most recent outing in the baggy green was a testing one. In six innings against the West Indies, he managed only 50 runs in difficult conditions, where even seasoned batters struggled. Having first broken into the Test side against India last season, he now finds himself battling to stay in contention for the November Ashes series.

Despite the setback, the selectors are keeping faith that the experience will shape him positively in the long run. As Konstas himself put it:
"It was my first time playing in the West Indies … hopefully I can build from that experience."

Australia A Tour and Sheffield Shield Crucial

The next step in his journey begins with the Australia A tour of India in September, where Konstas will feature in the four-day matches. While performances there will be noted, it is the early rounds of the Sheffield Shield in October that could decide his short-term Test fate.

For Konstas, those matches are about embracing the challenge while staying grounded:
"It's going to be a big four games … but for me it's about being process-driven, not getting too fazed about outside noise, and trusting my inner circle."

Why India Matters Too

Beyond the Ashes, that India shadow tour holds longer-term significance, with Australia scheduled for a five-Test tour of the subcontinent in early 2027. Runs in India would not only boost his confidence but also mark him as a strong candidate for future overseas assignments.

Support System: Warner, Smith, and Edwards

Konstas has returned to training with New South Wales, often alongside his state skipper Jack Edwards, who is also heading to India. Edwards praised his teammate for his resilience and hard work:

"He’s working extremely hard at his game … he’s definitely going to have a long career for Australia."

The teenager is also lucky to have two of Australia’s modern batting greats in his corner: Steven Smith and David Warner. Warner, in particular, has been a big influence through his positive, aggressive mindset—a style Konstas is keen to draw from without losing his own natural game.

"I just like his mindset … he’s always trying to dictate terms," Konstas said.

Long Career Ahead

Still just 19, and set to turn 20 in October, Konstas is reminding himself of the long road ahead. His breakthrough into the Test team after only 11 first-class matches was a leap, but one the selectors believed in. For now, he is focused on growth, preparation, and making the most of every opportunity.

"As an athlete, you’re going to go through failures and successes," he reflected. "But you build from those failures and become a better person and cricketer."

With the Ashes on the horizon, Sam Konstas knows the coming months could shape his career. By staying grounded, leaning on his mentors, and trusting his process, he hopes to seize his opportunity at the top of Australia’s Test order.