Wed Jan 29 05:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Head to Open for Australia in Galle Test; Konstas’ Debut Delayed
**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Australia have confirmed Travis Head will open alongside Usman Khawaja in the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting in Galle. The decision marks a return to a successful combination used during Australia’s recent tour of India.
Steve Smith, speaking a day before the match, highlighted Head’s strong performance against the new ball in India, praising his ability to pressure both pace and spin bowlers. However, Smith remained coy about the final eleven, citing the unpredictable nature of the Sri Lankan weather and pitch conditions. A final decision, he said, will be made on the morning of the match.
This strategic shift could mean 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas will miss out on his second Test appearance. While acknowledging Konstas’ potential, Smith emphasized the value of the young player gaining experience through practice during the tour.
Meanwhile, injury concerns surrounding Steve Smith (elbow) and Matthew Kuhnemann (left arm) have been allayed. Smith confirmed his full recovery, while Kuhnemann, surprisingly fit after a recent surgery, has been declared ready to play. Smith described Kuhnemann’s recovery as “gobsmacking,” attributing it either to exceptional pain tolerance or remarkable acting skills.
First Piper 