Australia name Test squad to take on India in Border-Gavaskar 2024-25 series
Australia’s selectors have picked their man to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order against India. He’s one of two uncapped stars in the squad for the first Test.
Nathan McSweeney will open the batting for Australia in the first Test while Josh Inglis has been named as the spare batter.
South Australian captain McSweeney had become the clear frontrunner for the vacancy to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order after impressing at the start of the domestic season and then making an impressive unbeaten 88 to lead Australia A to victory in Mackay earlier this month.
McSweeney was pushed to the top of the order for the second A match at the MCG and made 14 and 25, but could not be usurped by Marcus Harris despite the Victorian’s first innings 74.
White-ball gloveman and stand-in skipper Inglis was not seriously considered for the opener’s spot but has been in red-hot form in Sheffield Shield cricket, edging out the likes of Beau Webster and Harris for the reserve spot.
Scott Boland has been included as a spare quick, with 10 Test spots essentially picking themselves.
“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 (McDonald) and Pat (Cummins) the options required for what shapes as a captivating series.”
Selection chair George Bailey will front the media this morning at the MCG.
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