Sean Abbott's top picks for the vacant Test opener position

Australia and NSW's Sean Abbott has discussed his top picks for who should open the batting with Usman Khawaja in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India.

Abbott’s initial name followed popular discussions, throwing up his up-and-coming state teammate Sam Konstas.

Konstas would be a near unprecedented selection in Australian cricket, with the 19-year old playing less than ten first-class games in his career.

Despite this, Abbott ensures the young star has strong potential and could make a real impact in the test series.

“Playing with Sam last week, I know he didn't score many runs, but he didn't miss a ball with his banter for the three days we were in the field,” Abbott said on *SEN1170. *

“If Sam scores runs in this game, I think he will go pretty close.”

Alternatively, Abbott also thinks that selectors could look at his other state opener Nic Maddinson, who has previously won a baggy green, or WA's Josh Inglis who has done the role well in white-ball cricket for the nation.

“I like the idea of potentially someone like Josh Inglis or Nic Maddinson,” he added.

“You will be coming up against some of the world's best bowlers from India and I like what they can do if they can get on a roll.

“They can win you a game in a session if they need to and score 80 or 100 runs of their own bat.

“That's the style of cricket I like to see at Test level.”

Abbott prepares for a packed cricket season ahead, beginning with the Sheffield Shield on Friday, followed by a series of matches alongside his NSW and Australian white-ball teams.

The Australia A match against India A beginning on Thursday in Mackay will be closely watched by selectors as they seek the right candidate for the vacant opening position. Konstas and Marcus Harris will open the batting in that game.