McSweeney gets his due as he is set to open in the first test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy that begins in Perth.
McSweeney gets to open the batting for Australia in the first Test against India in Perth to partner Usman Khawaja. Josh Inglis has been included as the reserve batter in a 13-player squad.
Despite failing to convert two starts against India A at the MCG. Where he made 14 and 25 on a difficult pitch opening for the first time in his first-class career. McSweeney had solidified his position as the favourite for the open position in recent weeks. He was chosen over specialist openers like Marcus Harris, who is not even included in the squad.
“I’ve been able to perform pretty consistently over the past couple of years in Shield cricket. I feel like my game is constantly getting better and improving,” McSweeney said. “I feel like I’m playing probably the best cricket I have. It’s nice to spend some time in the middle against India A in Mackay. And here at the MCG and feel like my game’s ready.”
McSweeney was only given the word by national selector George Bailey after the end of the second A game at the MCG. “There’s been a lot of talk about it. Didn’t really know until I finally got the word, still probably hasn’t quite sunk in yet,” he said. “Getting a lot of nice messages. Very lucky and grateful for the opportunity.”
As anticipated, Scott Boland will be the backup quick bowler for Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and skipper Pat Cummins during the first Test match at Optus Stadium, which starts on November 22.
The selectors’ choices are in line with their recent tenet of selecting the top six batters rather than placing undue emphasis on their placements. Following David Warner’s retirement earlier this year, Steven Smith was moved back to No. 4 after his four-Test stint, creating a void at the top of the order.
“Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket. Along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket,” Bailey. “His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favour. And it supports our view he is ready for the opportunity at Test level.
“Similarly, Josh has been in great touch in the Sheffield Shield competition. He 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 which provides Andrew and Pat the options required for a captivating series.”