Australia’s selection committee is taking a measured approach with Sam Konstas, the promising young batter earmarked for a bright future, despite not yet being a guaranteed starter. As the national team prepares for the upcoming World Test Championship final against South Africa, selectors remain flexible with their options at the top of the order, signalling that Konstas’ development will not be rushed.

Konstas, alongside veteran Usman Khawaja, is one of only two recognised openers named in the 16-man squad for the clash in South Africa. Yet, his position in the playing XI is far from confirmed, with experienced names such as Cameron Green, Marnus Labuschagne, and Josh Inglis also being considered to partner Khawaja against the pace threat of Kagiso Rabada.

Chairman of selectors George Bailey, speaking ahead of the team’s preparations, highlighted Konstas’ raw potential and the long-term vision the selectors have for him.

“I think it’s pretty clear that he’s not a finished product, he’s on a journey, he’s a highly talented player,” said Bailey.

“The things we like: He’s a quick learner, he’s really keen to learn, he’s shown an amazing ability to adapt and change the way he plays.”

“Any opportunity that he does get around this team, whether that’s in the XI or around the squad, I think he’s going to continue to improve.”

Bailey’s comments indicate a clear desire to nurture Konstas within the team environment, ensuring that he has the chance to evolve his game, even if it means not being a consistent starter immediately. The willingness to invest in his development, even from the sidelines, reflects the faith the selectors have in his future.

While there has been much debate around the specialised nature of opening the batting in Test cricket, Bailey offered a more nuanced take, suggesting the role may be more versatile than commonly perceived.

“I think (Labuschagne) could do it, I think we’ve got a number of guys who could open the batting, that’s not to say that they will,” Bailey stated.

“I do think it’s a role that more people could do it than we probably give credit to. I know there’s a prevailing thought that it’s a specialised role.”

“I think in certain conditions, there’s opportunities where other guys could do it, whether that’s England for Josh (Inglis) or a middle order role where he’s had success already.”

These remarks underline a tactical flexibility heading into the final, with team selection likely to hinge on match conditions and player readiness, rather than fixed notions of batting roles.

Bailey also addressed speculation around whether the selectors have already locked in their preferred XI. He made it clear that there is still a great deal to assess before finalising the lineup.

“I am not trying to be cryptic about it and we’re sitting on the XI, (where) we know it and we’re just not announcing it, I just think there’s quite a bit to work through.”

“The Test is another month away, there’s guys still playing cricket in India, guys in England playing and some guys starting their preparation here as well.”

With players currently scattered across the globe—some wrapping up commitments in India and others plying their trade in England—the final weeks leading up to the Test will be crucial for player fitness and form assessment.

Bowling-wise, Australia has named Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott as reserve options, but it is likely that Scott Boland will be the first to step in should any of the frontline quicks become unavailable. Boland, who has already proven his mettle on the international stage, appears to be in pole position as the backup pace option.

“That’ll become clearer once we get to the UK and probably get eyes on particularly those fast bowlers who have been playing in India,” said Bailey.

“They’re all working pretty hard behind the scenes to ramp up their loads a little bit but it’ll be a slightly different preparation.”

This cautious but confident approach to preparation and selection shows a broader shift in Australia’s Test strategy. Rather than pigeonholing players into rigid roles, the selectors appear open to a more dynamic structure—backing in-form and adaptable players, regardless of traditional labels.

For Konstas, this may mean a longer wait for his moment in the spotlight. However, it also means he is being groomed carefully and with intent—something that bodes well for his future prospects in Baggy Green.

Australia’s decision-making ahead of the World Test Championship final underscores both strategic patience and the ambition to build a squad that can respond to any scenario. As Bailey and his panel weigh the options, one thing remains certain—Sam Konstas, despite his youth, is firmly part of Australia’s Test blueprint.