A day after Australia A wrapped up a 2-0 series victory, Cricket Australia have unveiled a 13-man squad for the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Team India, beginning on November 22. Nathan McSweeney has earned his maiden call-up to the Test side, while Josh Inglis has been named as a reserve keeper.
McSweeney has pipped the likes of Marcus Harris and Sam Konstas despite the duo furthering their chances in the second four-day Test against India at the MCG with vital half-centuries. McSweeney, who opened at the MCG, registered scores of 14 and 25 and looked comfortable in his second dig after facing 69 deliveries. Having been selected despite not opening regularly in first-class cricket, he is set to partner Usman Khawaja at the top.
With Michael Neser sustaining a hamstring strain, Scott Boland is the only reserve seamer in the squad, but is likely to sit out due to the trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
Australia's squad for the first Test:
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey addressed McSweeney's selection, claiming that his attributes have convinced them of his chances of doing well in Tests. Bailey said, as quoted by cricket.com.au:
"Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket. His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favour and supports our view he is ready for the opportunity at Test level. Similarly, Josh has been in great touch in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in his first Test squad.
With Inglis also named captain for the T20I series against Pakistan, it remains to be seen if he will be flown immediately ahead of the first Test. The squad for the opening Test will assemble in Perth on November 17.
