David Warner's surprise role as Sam Konstas eyes Australian debut; Big Bash, Sydney Thunder captaincy

Sam Konstas is vying to become Australia's long-term opener at Test level and he's got the perfect man in his corner to guide him.

The 19-year-old has risen to prominence in recent months and is knocking on the door for an Australian call-up, potentially as soon as the third game against India.

Konstas has been earmarked for huge things since a young age and has represented Australia A and Prime Minister's XI teams early in the summer.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Lyon gives 'honest' call amid Marsh injury debate

READ MORE: 'Firm favourites' emerge as Knights prop eyes switch

READ MORE: F1 star takes swipe at Alpine in emotional farewell

While the young gun is remaining focused on the task at hand in Sheffield Shield level, there is no doubt he wants the challenge of facing Jasprit Bumrah and company.

Sam Konstas is eyeing off a Test debut. Getty

Konstas has been mentored by former Test opener Shane Watson throughout his young career and has now revealed another Aussie great is backing him for big things.

David Warner - the man who left a gaping hole at the top of the order when he retired last summer - will captain Konstas at the Sydney Thunder in this year's Big Bash and the pair have already begun to make contact as the season approaches.

"Obviously he's a legend of the game," Konstas said.

"He has been texting me quite a bit and I think I'm meeting him next week. He's a superstar, so hopefully I learn quite a bit from him.

"[He was] congratulating me, telling me about the Indian bowlers and how they bowl."

Warner amassed over 8700 runs for Australia at Test level in a career that spanned more than a decade, cementing himself as one of the country's all-time top run-scorers.

David Warner Getty

The 38-year-old will skipper the Thunder after having his lifetime Cricket Australia leadership ban overturned last month.

Konstas' desire to play Test cricket sooner rather than later could make him unavailable for the BBL campaign, but the teenage sensation isn't fazed either way.

"I think these days you have got to adapt to different formats," he said.

"I'm pretty flexible and whatever opportunity I get is a huge honour to play for them."

The second Test begins this Friday at Adelaide Oval, with the BBL season kicking off on December 15 between the Scorchers and Stars.

Click here to read article