Nathan McSweeney has received a maiden Test call-up for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named in Australia’s 13-player squad for the series opener against India in Perth.
The South Australian has been rewarded for his consistency in the Sheffield Shield over the past couple of years, with chief selector George Bailey confirming he will open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja at Perth Stadium later this month. He will become Australia’s 467th men’s Test cricketer, beating out specialist openers Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and Sam Konstas for the role.
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McSweeney had never opened the batting at first-class level before the Australia A series, but the national selectors are adamant the right-hander boasts the technique and temperament required to face the swinging Kookaburra.
The previous Australian to open the batting at Test level without having done so for their state was Victorian Richie Robinson in 1977.
The 25-year-old, who captained Australia A this week, has also been recognised for his leadership qualities, touted as a potential successor for Test skipper Pat Cummins.
Australia’s newest white ball captain Josh Inglis has been named as the back-up batter in the squad, and he also offers the ability to take the gloves – as he does in the ODI and T20I sides – as a back-up to Alex Carey.
The West Australian is uncapped at Test level and has forced his way into the squad with two swashbuckling centuries in each of his Sheffield Shield matches to date this season.
Victorian seamer Scott Boland continues his hold on being the back-up bowler to the big three after watching from the sidelines in seven straight Tests at home and in New Zealand last summer.
“Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket,” Bailey said.
“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.
“Scott has been a top-level performer when given the opportunity at Test level and remains a valued member of the squad.
“The squad is balanced and provides Andrew and Pat the options required for what shapes as a captivating series.”
The injured Cameron Green is the only member of Australia’s XI from their most recent outing – a three-wicket win in Christchurch – missing from the squad.
Australian squad for Perth Test vs India
Pat Cummins (c)
Usman Khawaja
Nathan McSweeney
Marnus Labuschagne
Steve Smith
Travis Head
Mitchell Marsh
Marcus Harris
Alex Carey
Mitchell Starc
Nathan Lyon
Josh Hazlewood
Scott Boland
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