Sydney—Australian cricket great Allan Border has fired a stern warning at young batsman Sam Konstas, urging him to abandon his over-reliance on the "bloody ramp shot" if he wants a future in Test cricket. Border’s comments, made on SENQ Breakfast, follow Konstas' inconsistent form in recent months and a particularly rash dismissal during the latest Sheffield Shield match against Victoria.
The 20-year-old, who made a memorable half-century on his Test debut last Boxing Day by frequently ramping India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, has since struggled to maintain consistency at the top of the order. With the Ashes series looming, his recent state-level performances—including scores of 4, 14, 0, and 53—have put his spot in serious jeopardy.
Border expressed concern that Konstas is focusing too much on the ramp shot and neglecting fundamental strokes, questioning if he can play shots like a cover drive. He advised Konstas to reserve the ramp shot until he is well-established at the crease. Border urged the young batsman to adopt a more traditional approach initially to give himself a better chance to succeed, stating that while he hears Konstas is talented, he hasn't consistently seen it yet.
Allan Border is not the only legend to voice concerns; Mark Waugh previously warned Konstas about putting a "target on his back" with his "cocky" style, and Steve Smith offered his support, acknowledging Konstas is "trying to figure out how he wants to play".
With the Ashes opener approaching in November, Konstas is under pressure to perform as selectors consider other in-form players like Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne. Konstas must demonstrate that his aggressive style is supported by a solid technique to secure his place.
