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20 sa

Australia Eyes Head for Opening Role Against Sri Lanka

Australian opening batter Sam Konstas faces the possibility of being dropped as the team considers a change in their opening combination for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. The Australian management is evaluating Travis Head as a potential candidate to take on the opening role, particularly in the challenging subcontinent conditions.

Head's previous experience in Sri Lanka during the 2022 tour saw him struggle in the middle order, scoring only 23 runs across three innings with an average of 7.67. However, after stepping up to the top order due to David Warner's injury, he showcased his capabilities during the Border-Gavaskar series, amassing 235 runs in six innings at an average of 47 and a strike rate of 68.71.

Despite Konstas' recent performances, the drastic change in playing conditions may prompt the selectors to experiment with a different opening combination. Australia has already secured their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final against South Africa and is likely to approach the Sri Lanka series without their pace spearheads, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.

Selectors are keen for Usman Khawaja to continue in the lineup, providing support to Sam Konstas during this transition, given Khawaja's successful track record in subcontinent conditions. The first Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka is set to commence on January 29 at the Galle International Stadium.

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