Veteran cricketer Ian Healy has weighed in on Australia’s top-order struggles, offering direct advice to young batter Sam Konstas ahead of the third Test against West Indies in Jamaica.
Healy’s Frank Assessment of the Top Order
Ian Healy hasn’t held back his opinions on the Australian batting lineup throughout the West Indies series. He believes there aren’t many other opening options available, suggesting both Usman Khawaja and Sam Konstas should open in the upcoming day-night Test.
Khawaja, in particular, has faced challenges, often getting out LBW to balls angled in from around the wicket. Healy noted that even if he avoids the LBW, he tends to edge deliveries that straighten, pushing inside the line.
Sam Konstas’s Crucial Net Sessions
Healy pinpointed Sam Konstas’s “jerky” technique, especially his cut shot, as an area needing urgent attention. He stressed that Konstas must find his “fluency” during practice sessions before the final Test.
The former wicketkeeper advised Konstas to enjoy the week in Jamaica, suggesting that a positive mindset often leads to better performance. He highlighted the importance of finding a “sweet spot” in practice, neither overdoing it nor neglecting progress.
Konstas needs to focus on footwork, balance, and fluency. Healy observed that the young batter often throws his bat at the ball late and falls into his shots. He even drew a parallel with Cameron Green’s recent improvements, asking why Konstas couldn’t do the same.
Concerns Over the Jamaica Venue
Aside from batting issues, there have been concerns regarding the readiness of the Sabina Park venue in Jamaica. The third Test is scheduled to be a day-night affair, and questions have been raised about the quality of the floodlights.
Dr. Donovan Bennett, President of the Jamaican Cricket Association, admitted feeling “a little bit uneasy” about the ongoing construction. However, he expressed confidence that the venue, including the lighting and scoreboard, will be ready by July 12th, the day before the match.
- Ian Healy recommends both Usman Khawaja and Sam Konstas open the batting in the third Test.
- Konstas needs to improve his batting “fluency,” footwork, and balance in net sessions.
- Khawaja continues to struggle with LBW dismissals and edging balls angled in.
- There are ongoing concerns about the readiness of floodlights and the scoreboard at the Jamaican venue.
With the third Test set to begin on July 13th, all eyes will be on how Australia’s top order responds to these challenges and whether the Jamaica venue is indeed up to standard.
