McSweeney had firmed because the favorite for the vacant position in latest weeks and although he could not convert two begins in opposition to India A on the MCG – the place he made 14 and 25 on a tough pitch opening for the primary time his first-class profession – he has been most well-liked forward of specialist openers together with Marcus Harris who doesn’t even make the squad.
“Nathan has displayed the attributes we consider will equip him nicely for Take a look at cricket together with a robust latest file in home cricket,” chair of selectors George Bailey stated. “His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favour and helps our view he’s prepared for the chance at Take a look at degree.
“Equally, Josh has been in nice contact within the Sheffield Protect competitors and deserves his place in his first Take a look at squad. Scott has been a top-level performer when given the chance at Take a look at degree and stays a valued member of the squad. The squad is balanced and gives Andrew and Pat the choices required for what shapes as a charming sequence.”
Harris appeared to have made a robust case for choice with a hard-fought 74 within the first innings in opposition to India A in Melbourne nevertheless it wasn’t sufficient to return him to the Take a look at fold. Sam Konstas sealed victory within the match with a high-quality innings at No. 4 however after early-season pleasure along with his twin lots of in opposition to South Australia it has been determined it’s a little too early for the 19-year-old. Cameron Bancroft’s horror run of type meant he drifted nicely out of rivalry.
Australia squad for 1st Take a look at vs India
Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc
