Leaving sammy

World Test Championship: Nineteen-year-old Australian cricket prodigy Sam Konstas displayed composure and professionalism after being left out of the playing XI for the opening Test against Sri Lanka, according to selector Tony Dodemaide, who reassured that Konstas remains a crucial part of Australia's plans for the future and revealed the youngster's classy response to being dropped for the opener.

"A lot of the narrative has been around this tour doesn’t matter. It really does, it’s Test cricket. That’s our priority. Leaving Sammy out was a very difficult thing. There was a long discussion there. We feel though that he’s on a remarkable journey. He’s a hugely talented player, hasn’t played a lot in this part of the world but he’ll learn quickly obviously.

“There’s a lot to like and be impressed about Sam. One of the things is his ability to take things in his stride. It’s remarkable really, whether it’s playing in front of 90,000 and Jasprit Bumrah at the MCG or getting told that you’re left out of the Test. He was like, ‘Oh yeah mate, no stress. I get it,” said Australian selector Dodemaide while talking with reporters at Galle.