Chair of selectors George Bailey has revealed his message to opener Sam Konstas following his Test axing ahead of the Ashes, acknowledging the “immense scrutiny” he has faced since his unforgettable debut.

On Wednesday, Bailey announced Australia’s 15-player squad for the Ashes series opener against England, with Tasmanian opener Jake Weatherald earning a maiden national call-up.

Konstas was omitted from the squad following a recent form slump, headlined by his disappointing Frank Worrell Trophy campaign against the West Indies and a sluggish start to the Sheffield Shield.

Following his maiden knock at the MCG last summer, where he clobbered a stylish half-century against India in front of a packed crowd, Konstas has averaged 11.87 in the Test arena with no fifties across four matches

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