“He’s a special one”: NSW coach Shipperd heaps praise on young star Konstas

CRICKET prodigy Sam Konstas could be in line for a call-up to the Australian Test team this summer after a stellar start to this season’s Sheffield Shield campaign.

The 19-year-old has starred for NSW thus far, notching up back-to-back centuries in his side’s opening clash against South Australia, making him the youngest player to reach the feat since Ricky Ponting.

After his strong start to the domestic season, Konstas has been given the chance to audition for the seemingly vacant spot at the top of the Test order after being picked for the Australia A side.

Kontsas will face tough competition with fellow hopefuls Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft also selected but the young star will get an even better chance to showcase his skills when NSW face Victoria at the MCG this Sunday – with a handful of Test incumbents expected to play.

With a sensational call-up beckoning for Konstas, NSW Cricket coach Greg Shipperd opened up on the 19-year-old’s start to the season and put his full faith in him to live up to his potential.

“It was all heading in the right direction as he finished off last season,” Shipperd told SEN 1170 Mornings.

“He was a breath of fresh air around the group in terms of his energy and his commitment to his craft.

“He trains beautifully… loves batting, loves scoring.

“He doesn’t overplay situations; he found a really nice balance early on in his career.”

“If it’s a drive, it’s a drive or if it’s a cut, it’s a cut, he’s not really fazed with balls around that head area.

“It was terrific for him.

“He had some games before the Shield match where he made a couple of mental mistakes, but he really readjusted that quickly and got in the contest against South Australia and was phenomenal.

“I’ve seen young players come through over my journey of 50 years and he’s a special one.

“We’re looking forward to him playing well for us and I believe he is an Australian player in waiting.”

Shipperd also discusses Konstas’ mentorship with NSW legend Shane Watson and how that has helped him take the next step.

“He has developed this process of his own across his career with a lot of good support around him,” Shipperd added.

“Shane Watson is someone he talks to quite often around that level of cricket.

“Out in the middle you are on your own, you have got to make a decision every ball…he is hungry for runs, loves batting.”

Konstas will get his chance to shine for Australia A in a two-game series against India A later in the summer.