Wed Dec 25 12:07:59 UTC 2024: ## Teenager Konstas to Debut for Australia in Boxing Day Test Against India
**Melbourne, Australia** – Australia has unveiled a revised playing XI for the crucial Boxing Day Test against India, featuring the debut of 19-year-old Sam Konstas. Konstas will open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja, a daunting task against India’s formidable pace attack, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah.
The selection comes after Nathan McSweeney was dropped from the team. Another change sees Scott Boland replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Travis Head is fit to play.
Cummins, who himself debuted for Australia at the age of 18, offered words of encouragement to Konstas, advising him to enjoy the moment and avoid overthinking. He recalled his own debut experiences, including a memorable (and potentially reckless) attempt to hit Dale Steyn for six.
The full Australian team is: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
First Piper 