Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Australia announce squad for 1st test in Perth, Nathan McSweeney set to make test debut as an opener

Nathan McSweeney has played 34 first-class games and recently led Australia A.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is set to begin on November 22 in Perth. With the series around the corner, Australia have announced their squad for the first test match of the five-test series.

South Australia batsman and captain Nathan McSweeney, who bats at No. 3 in domestic cricket, has been selected over specialist openers Cameron Bancroft and Marcus Harris due to his strong first-class performances and impressive batting display against India A.

McSweeney ranks among the most consistent performers in the Sheffield Shield over the last couple of years with a batting average of 43.44. His move to the top of the batting order will fill the vacancy left by Steve Smith’s move back to No. 4 and a back injury to Cameron Green.

Josh Inglis and Scott Boland are part of the 13-man Australian squad for the first test but are both expected to be on the bench. Inglis will serve as a backup batsman and keeper while Boland is the backup pacer.

Nathan McSweeney Reflects on selection and debut opportunity

Expressing excitement following his selection, McSweeney said “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,”

The 25-year-old batter also noted that he feels confident with his batting. “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 concluded.

Australia’s experienced core and new talent in full squad

Australia’s 13-member squad has a great blend of experienced and young stars. Captain Pat Cummins will lead the pace attack, which consists of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh.

Nathon Lyon has been named as the sole spinner, with part-time support from Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head.

Labuschagne and McSweeney will strengthen the batting lineup alongside experienced names like Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja. Alex Carey remains the first-choice wicket-keeper with Inglis as his deputy.

Australia squad for 1st test vs India:

Pat Cummins (C), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

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