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Konstas Shines; Head, Hazlewood Miss Out As Australia Conduct 1st Net Session Before WTC Final

Debashis Sarangi

Sam Konstas and Travis Head [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @cricketcomau/X]Sam Konstas and Travis Head [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @cricketcomau/X]

In a significant development, the Australian team started its preparations for the high-voltage World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's. On Wednesday, the Australian players hit the nets for the very first time ahead of the much-awaited face-off in London. 

As the Pat Cummins-led outfit prepares for the mega clash, here are the key highlights from Australia's first practice session before the contest. 

Sam Konstas Looks Sublime Amid Selection Conundrum

Australia have a vacant opening slot after David Warner's Test retirement. Although the promising Sam Konstas managed to retain his place after a few quick-fire BGT cameos, pressure looms large on the youngster, with Cameron Green and Marnus Labuschagne reportedly auditioning for the top order slots. 

However, Konstas had a positive impact in Australia's first practice session, effectively countering the formidable fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc. 

As reported by Cricket.com.au, Konstas was one of the brightest performers during the net session, which was conducted on a lively deck and thoroughly tested the likes of Usman Khawaja, Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green and Alex Carey. 

Australia Bring In Surprise Net Bowler To Counter Marco Jansen

The Australians prepared themselves to face Marco Jansen, who stands 6'9", by appointing a net bowler named Ali Zarmir. The left-arm seamer and Australia's assistant coach Daniel Vettori sent plenty of throw-downs from a substantial height, helping the batters get ready for Jansen's lethal spells. 

Travis Head, Josh Inglis And Josh Hazlewood Miss Out On 1st Net Session

Meanwhile, swashbuckling batters Travis Head and Josh Inglis and ace speedster Josh Hazlewood couldn't participate in the intense net session. While Inglis and Hazlewood were travelling after playing the IPL 2025 final, Head, who was recently diagnosed with COVID-19, might've been rested to rehabilitate ahead of the final.