Australian batsman Nathan McSweeney plays a shot on the third day of the match between Australia A and India A. — AFP
Nathan McSweeney secured his spot as the opener for Australia in the first of five Tests against India this month, while Josh Inglis was a surprise addition to the 13-man squad. Since David Warner's retirement in January, no clear contender had emerged to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order for the high-profile series beginning in Perth on November 22. Initially, Steve Smith took on the role but struggled and will now return to his usual position at number four, behind Marnus Labuschagne. The 25-year-old, uncapped South Australian captain McSweeney, emerged as the leading candidate after a strong start to the domestic season. However, former Test players Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft, along with rising star Sam Konstas, were also in contention. This led to a "bat-off" in two Australia A versus India A four-day red-ball matches over the past fortnight. McSweeney cemented his position with an unbeaten 88 in the first match at Mackay, batting at number four. Although he scored 14 and 25 when promoted to open in the second match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, selectors were convinced by his overall performance.
"Nathan has demonstrated the qualities we believe are essential for Test cricket, supported by his recent domestic form," said chief selector George Bailey. "His performances for South Australia and Australia A were key factors in our decision, confirming our belief that he is ready for the Test arena." McSweeney expressed his excitement about the opportunity. "I feel my game is at its best, and I'm eager to take the field and hopefully make everyone proud," he told reporters, adding that he is prepared to face the first ball from India. "I've heard Uzzie isn't too keen on facing the opening delivery. I've been told that by a few teammates. I faced the first ball in both innings here (against India A), so I'm comfortable with that." Travis Head is expected to bat at number five, with Mitchell Marsh taking on the all-rounder role after Cameron Green was ruled out due to spinal surgery. Alex Carey will be the wicketkeeper, with Inglis selected ahead of Harris, Bancroft, and Konstas as the backup batsman. Bailey had previously stated that Inglis was not being considered as a Test opener.
"Josh has been in excellent form in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in his first Test squad," said Bailey. The experienced pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc will lead the attack, alongside spin specialist Nathan Lyon, who will play his 130th Test in Perth, aiming to add to his 530 wickets. Scott Boland is the reserve fast bowler, with Michael Neser, who was injured during Australia A's game in Mackay, not considered. After Perth, the series will move to Adelaide for a day-night match, followed by Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. 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.
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