As Australia looks to finalize its squad for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against India, 19-year-old Sam Konstas has emerged as a strong contender, with selectors closely monitoring the top-order performance. The young opening batsman from New South Wales, who has impressed in domestic cricket this summer, believes he is already a better batter than when he started the season with back-to-back centuries for the state side.

Konstas has quickly become a bright prospect for Australian cricket, following his remarkable feat in October when he became the youngest player since Ricky Ponting to score twin centuries in a Sheffield Shield match. Although he faced a brief lean patch afterwards, Konstas believes his game has matured, stating that he now has a better understanding of when to take on the game and how to manage different match scenarios.

"I’m understanding the scenarios of the game and when to take on the game," said Konstas. "Trying to mature as a batsman. Obviously I’m going to make some silly mistakes, but I think understanding when to take the game on [is an area I’ve improved in]."

His solid domestic form has kept him in the selection conversation, particularly after Australia's top-order struggles in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Despite Australia’s overall dominance, the drawn Test at the Gabba has left the series level at 1-1, with India needing just one more win to retain the trophy. As selectors meet this week to discuss changes, Australia is set to make at least one alteration to the playing XI, with Scott Boland expected to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood.

The heat remains on Australia's opening batsmen, with both Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney facing pressure to secure their spots. Khawaja, who celebrated his 38th birthday this week, has endured a tough series, averaging just 12.60 after 11 consecutive innings without a half-century. McSweeney, while showing promise, is still adapting to the demands of opening at the Test level, having only recently filled the role for Australia A.

In contrast, Konstas has continued to shine. His performances include a 107 against India for the Prime Minister’s XI, an 88 in the Sheffield Shield for New South Wales, and a rapid 56 for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League in the past few weeks.

Though the prospect of a debut is now seen as inevitable, Konstas remains focused on improving his game rather than dwelling on selection talk. He has been seeking advice from veteran David Warner, who has been his opening partner for the Thunder in the BBL.

“I’m trying to learn from him each time I bat with him,” Konstas said. "He’s taught me to try to be fearless and take the game on. Whatever happens, happens."

As Australia prepares for the Melbourne Test, selector George Bailey's relationship with players, including Konstas, continues to be a point of discussion. Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, defended the selectors' approach, stating that the close connections with players have not hindered tough decision-making. He also addressed concerns about the team’s second-innings collapse at the Gabba, suggesting the fall of wickets was a result of the team’s pursuit of quick runs, rather than a fault of the top-order batsmen.

The Australian squad is also carrying reserves Josh Inglis and Beau Webster, while Mitchell Marsh's role remains under scrutiny after he bowled just two overs in the Brisbane Test. With a crucial fourth Test on the horizon, all eyes are on whether Konstas will finally get the call-up, as selectors look to make changes in the face of mounting pressure from India.