Konstas to open for Australia in India Test

MELBOURNE, Dec 24 (AFP): Sam Konstas will open the batting for Australia in the fourth Test against India, coach Andrew McDonald said Tuesday, while voicing confidence leading batsman Travis Head will be fit to play.

Konstas was called up after selectors dumped Nathan McSweeney after just three Tests, with the 19-year-old tasked with fending off Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah alongside an under-performing Usman Khawaja.

"He'll play Boxing Day," McDonald told reporters, referring to the teenager as "composed, relaxed".

"We have said from the get-go, leading into this summer, that we wouldn't shy away and age was no barrier.

"What he's shown is an array of shots and an ability to put pressure back on his opponents and he gets his opportunity.