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Explained: Why Will Travis Head Replace Sam Konstas As Opener In AUS vs SL 1st Test?



Travis Head to open the batting in 1st Test vs Sri Lanka [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]Travis Head to open the batting in 1st Test vs Sri Lanka [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]

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In a significant development, Australia have decided to unleash Travis Head as an opener in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Led by Steve Smith, Australia are set to take on Sri Lanka in a two-match series before the all-important World Test Championship final against South Africa. 

Meanwhile, the visitors have taken a bold decision, promoting Travis Head to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja. Head, who has been named Australia's vice-captain for the tour, has played most matches as Australia's first-choice number five in Tests. 

It's worth mentioning that Australia have Sam Konstas in their squad for the Sri Lanka Tests. However, as Steve Smith confirmed, Head will open the batting in the first Test match in Galle for the following reasons. 

Travis Head's Batting Promotion: A Tactical Change From Australia

  • The surface at Galle International Stadium offers significant assistance to the spin bowlers. When the ball gets old, it gets trickier for the batters to score runs, with the spinners getting substantial turn and bounce off the pitch. 
  • As Cricket.com.au reported, the pitch in Galle underwent significant shaving of grass after Australia's practice session on Monday. Therefore, there's a high probability that the pitch will deteriorate faster than expected. 
  • So, it's essential from the batting team's perspective to make the most of the conditions when the ball is hard and new. Travis Head is Australia's most dynamic batter who can help them get a rollicking start at the top order. 
  • Sam Konstas, on the other hand, has some evident flaws against the arm ball and hence might struggle against the rampant Lankan bowlers, especially Prabath Jayasuriya.
  • The Australian think tank was impressed with Head's ability to smack the new ball when they toured India back in 2023. Also, Head's promotion will open up a spot for an all-rounder in the lineup, and Australia can accommodate someone like Cooper Connolly, who can chip in with a few overs of off-spin apart from scoring valuable runs lower down the order.