His impressive standing has continued as he was included in a 17-man squad for the two four-day matches at Mackay and the MCG.
“He’s in the mix as are a lot of others. I certainly don’t want to single him out,” said chairman of selectors George Bailey. “Think about Cam Bancroft’s consistency over a number of years, Marcus Harris’ consistency over a number of years, they’ve both had a look at Test cricket as well, so I don’t think it’s necessary at this stage to put any undue pressure or expectation on Sam.
“He’s five games into his first-class occupation, he’s got off to a great start and he certainly looks like he’s got a well-organised game going which we’re really excited about. [about] and look forward to the A title and we will continue to watch as it progresses.”
Harris started the season strongly after scoring a century and a half against Tasmania, albeit on a benign Junction Oval surface. Bancroft, who made a pair, and Renshaw had double failures in the match between Western Australia and Queensland at the WACA.
“Still, we like Matt’s ability to play,” Bailey said. “As far as Australia is concerned, a variety, part of the way is trying to spot opportunities that may arise in the short term, but also ensuring we keep an eye on growing opportunities for those players who could also become notable in numerous roles.” in the future.
“While there is an Australian A team there, I think Matt Renshaw, Pete Handscomb and Nic Maddinson, as three examples, are guys who we will continue to watch very closely in Shield cricket.”
Cooper Connolly, who made his ODI debut in England, is the only player named in both the ODI and Australia A squads.
Josh Philippe, who left WA for NSW during the off-season, and Jimmy Peirson are the goalkeepers.
The first four-day game at Mackay ends on November 3, before the first ODI on November 4, after the second four-day game at MCG from November 7-10 and the second and third ODIs will be played on November 8 and 10.
The intensity of the Safeguard teams will be tested further as their design clashes with the setup for Safeguard’s third round on November 1.
“We are really excited about this team, particularly after some of the tremendous performances to start the Sheffield Shield season,” said Australia national coach George Bailey.
“As always with the Australia A team, we have chosen a team that we hope can put in convincing performances for the upcoming summer of testing, while also rewarding players for their strong domestic form in roles we consider important further afield.
“It will be an excellent opportunity for these players to shine against a powerful Check community looking to prepare for what will be a delightful summer season of Check cricket.”
Australia A team vs India A
Nathan McSweeney (captain), Cameron Bancroft, Scott Boland, Jordan Buckingham, Cooper Connolly, Ollie Davies, Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Michael Neser, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Jimmy Peirson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Mark Steketee and Beau Webster
Tristan Lavalette is a journalist based entirely in Perth.
