NEW DELHI: Nathan McSweeney has been selected as Australia’s new opening batsman for the first Test match of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. The five-Test series begins in Perth on November 22nd. Wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis was a surprise addition to the 13-man squad, which was revealed on Sunday.
Following David Warner’s retirement earlier this year, Australia have been actively searching for a suitable partner to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja.
Although veteran Steve Smith temporarily filled the role, he will now return to his usual position at number four, following Marnus Labuschagne. Smith’s recent performances as an opener have been less than satisfactory.
The leading contender for the opening position was 25-year-old South Australian captain, Nathan McSweeney. McSweeney, who is yet to make his Test debut, has had a strong start to the domestic season and impressive performances in recent Australia A matches against India A.
Despite competition from Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and rising star Sam Konstas, it was McSweeney’s unbeaten 88 in Mackay during the first Australia A match that solidified his position.
In the second match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, McSweeney was promoted to open the batting but only managed scores of 14 and 25. However, selectors were impressed with his overall form and potential.
“Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket, along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket,” said Australia’s chief selector George Bailey. “His performances for South Australia and Australia A support our view that he is ready for this opportunity at Test level.”
Another unexpected inclusion was Josh Inglis, who is primarily known for his white-ball cricket. Despite being previously ruled out as an option to open the batting, Inglis was selected as a backup batsman following his exceptional form in the Sheffield Shield.
Inglis has recently scored two centuries in Perth. Bailey confirmed that Inglis’ selection was based on his recent form, not as a contender for the opening spot, but as an additional batting option.
- Australia Test squad:
Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc
“Josh has been in great touch in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in his first Test squad,” Bailey added.
Australia’s bowling attack will be spearheaded by the experienced trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon is set to play his 130th Test match. Lyon, who has taken 530 Test wickets, remains Australia’s premier spin bowler. Scott Boland is named as the reserve fast bowler following Michael Neser’s injury.
Travis Head will bat at number five, while Mitchell Marsh will fill the all-rounder role. Cameron Green has been ruled out of the series due to spinal surgery.
The Border-Gavaskar series commences in Perth before heading to Adelaide for a day-night Test. Following Adelaide, the teams will play matches in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
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