Sam Konstas returns to Australian shores from Sri Lanka after missing out on Test selection

Sam Konstas has landed in Brisbane as part of Australia’s grand plan to have him front and centre in the same city during the Ashes next summer.

Sam Konstas has landed in Brisbane as part of Australia’s grand plan to have him front and centre in the same city during the Ashes next summer.

Aware Konstas has never played at the Gabba, the national selectors have plucked him out of the Sri Lankan tour to play for NSW against Queensland at the venue in the Sheffield Shield match starting Saturday.

The experience could only help him if, as appears likely, he is Australia’s opening batsman for next summer’s Ashes.

“This is going to be my first time at the Gabba and obviously hopefully (NSW) we will build a bit of momentum and make the final,’’ said Konstas, whose prime memory of cricket in Queensland was winning a national under age title with NSW.

Sam Konstas arriving at Brisbane Airport. Picture: David Clark

Konstas shook the cricket world when he audaciously ramped Indian superstar Jasprit Bumrah in the Boxing Day Test and while that breath-taking knock is likely to remain his signature innings Konstas says he won’t always be that cavalier.

“I thought at that time it was the best method but I don’t think it will be that hectic when I go and play red ball cricket. I just thought “put a bit of pressure on Bumrah and see what happens.’’

Though he did not play a Test in Sri Lanka, Konstas felt he gained several important tips by watching the senior players.

“I felt like I was very privileged to be in the squad. And obviously learning from the best players like Steve Smith, Travis Head and Usman Khawaja and how their methods are different in those conditions. I learnt quite a bit.’’

Konstas’ sacking in Sri Lanka was widely questioned in Australia even though the man who benefited most, Josh Inglis, scored a century on debut.

Konstas didn’t get a chance to bat in Sri Lanka. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

But he had no complaints about being elbowed out of the top order following the promotion of Travis Head to opener.

“I understood the reasons why. For me, it is just a great learning curve and if I do get another opportunity with the Test team I will grab it with both hands.

“I understand why Travis Head opened the batting because he is a legend of the game and he has been dominating.‘’

Konstas has become the talk of the nation since his Boxing Day blast but says the attention has not been overwhelming.

“I am pretty privileged to be fair to be doing something that I love, playing cricket. It does not feel like a job. It is something that I enjoy. Obviously there is a lot of media stuff that comes around but I don’t get too phased about it and live in the present moment.’’