Sam Konstas has heard this warning before. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting had previously cautioned him that reckless shot selection wouldn’t help his Test career.
Now, another Australian legend, Steve Waugh, has echoed the same sentiment. His message is clear—if Konstas doesn’t adjust his approach, he’ll find himself in trouble.
So far, Konstas has played just four Test innings, but most of the buzz surrounds his debut knock of 60 runs. In his other three innings, he has managed only 8, 23, and 22 runs. He was left out of the squad for the away Test series against Sri Lanka but is expected to make a return for the ICC World Test Championship final. Before that, Waugh has issued a stern reminder—his aggressive approach could be his downfall.
“He must respect the game more; otherwise, the game will punish him.”
—Steve Waugh on Konstas
Speaking to SEN Radio, Waugh said, “Konstas’ approach definitely had an impact on India and Bumrah… but I hope he now reins himself in and returns to playing naturally. If he keeps playing like this (aggressively), he won’t survive in Test cricket.”
Back in February, during a Sheffield Shield match, Konstas’ attacking instincts led to his downfall against Scott Boland in both innings. He scored just 7 and 17 while attempting aggressive strokes. Waugh hopes this experience hasn’t completely messed with his mindset.
“I hope this hasn’t affected his mental approach too much, because he’s only 19 years old. He’s already paid the price for the risks he took. He tried to attack Scott Boland, played ramp shots, and seemed unsure of what he was doing. The truth is, he must respect the game more; otherwise, the game will punish him,” Waugh warned.
Ponting had also voiced similar concerns earlier, saying, “I felt like Sam (Konstas) wasn’t confident in his defense, which is why he kept resorting to ramps and scoops. He does have a few good shots, but most of them are reckless. I don’t think a Test opener can survive playing like that all the time.”
