Australia has announced their squad for the first Test of the five-match series against India. The series, known as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, will begin with the first Test in Perth, and Cricket Australia revealed a 13-member squad on Sunday. Nathan McSweeney has been included in the team as a replacement for David Warner, who has retired.
McSweeney is also the captain of the Australia-A team for the three unofficial matches against India-A. He is expected to open alongside Usman Khawaja in the Perth Test. Additionally, wicketkeeper Josh Inglis has been included in the Test team for the first time. The first Test in Perth is set to start on November 22. McSweeney faced competition for the opening spot from players like Cameron Bancroft, Sam Constas, and Marcus Harris.
Mitchell Marsh Returns to the Test Team
All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has also made a return to the Test team after a long absence due to injury. He replaces Cameron Green, who is out with a back stress fracture. Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said, “McSweeney has performed well, and we expect him to play strongly in the upcoming series. His performances for South Australia and Australia A have been in his favor, and we believe he is ready for an opportunity at the Test level. Similarly, Inglis has earned his place in the Test team after excellent performances in the Sheffield Shield.”
Inglis Shines in Sheffield Shield
Apart from uncapped players McSweeney and Inglis, fast bowler Scott Boland has also made a comeback to the team. He will serve as a backup for captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. The inclusion of 29-year-old Josh Inglis is a surprising move, given that Alex Carey is already the primary wicketkeeper. However, Inglis has been rewarded for his stellar form in the current Sheffield Shield season. The Western Australia wicketkeeper-batsman made a strong case for national selection with back-to-back centuries in Perth.