November 10, 2024: Australia’s squad for the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against India has sparked a lot of interest, particularly with the inclusion of uncapped batter Nathan McSweeney. The 13-player squad was announced for the highly anticipated match, which will take place at Perth Stadium from November 22.
McSweeney, who has impressed with his performances for South Australia and Australia A, has been selected to fill the vacant opener’s spot. This makes him the likely partner for Usman Khawaja at the top of the order, a position that had been up for grabs following the retirement of David Warner. McSweeney’s strong domestic record and his recent performances against India A seem to have won the selectors’ trust, with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting backing him on The ICC Review.
Another surprising inclusion in the squad is white-ball specialist Josh Inglis, who has earned a spot despite being primarily known for his limited-overs exploits. Inglis has been in solid form in the Sheffield Shield competition, which likely helped him secure his place for the first Test.
The rest of the squad includes a blend of experience and consistency. Steve Smith is expected to return to his usual position at No. 4 in the batting order, with Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Alex Carey completing the middle order.
In the pace department, Australia is sticking with a tried-and-tested trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, with Scott Boland providing valuable backup. The spin department will be led by veteran Nathan Lyon, who will be crucial in the subcontinent conditions.
Australia’s selection chair, George Bailey, expressed confidence in McSweeney’s readiness for Test cricket, noting his strong domestic performances. Bailey also emphasized the squad’s balance, citing that the options available for captain Pat Cummins will be key in what is expected to be a highly competitive series.
The five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is crucial for both teams, as Australia and India currently sit in the top two spots in the World Test Championship standings. The series will be critical not just for the competition itself but also for the teams’ progression in the WTC.
Australia’s Squad for the First Test:
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Scott Boland
- Alex Carey
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Nathan Lyon
- Mitchell Marsh
- Nathan McSweeney
- Steve Smith
- Mitchell Starc
Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series Schedule:
- First Test: November 22-26 — Perth
- Second Test: December 6-10 — Adelaide
- Third Test: December 14-18 — Brisbane
- Fourth Test: December 26-30 — Melbourne
- Fifth Test: January 3-7 — Sydney
This exciting series promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams eager to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship race.
