McSweeney had established himself as the favorite for the vacant spot in recent weeks and although he failed to convert two starts against India A at the MCG, where he made 14 and 25 in a difficult opening for the first time in his first-class career , has been preferred ahead of specialized starters, including Marcus Harris, who is not even part of the team.
The decisions made by the selectors follow their recent mantra of picking the best six batsmen rather than focusing too much on the positions they traditionally occupy. The vacancy at the top of the order arose after the decision to move Steven Smith back to No. 4 following his four-Test stint earlier this year following the retirement of David Warner.
“Nathan has shown the attributes that we believe will prepare him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket,” said chairman of selectors George Bailey. “His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favor and support our view that he is ready for the opportunity at Test level.
“Likewise, Josh has had great exposure in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in your first Test team. Scott has performed top-notch when given the opportunity at Test level and continues to be a valued member of the team. The team “It is balanced and provides Andrew and Pat with the options necessary to create a captivating series.”
Generally in first-class cricket, McSweeney averages 38.16 with six centuries in 34 matches, but in the last two years that average has risen to 43.44 with all his hundreds during that period. In a sign of his standing among the selectors, he was handed the captaincy of Australia A before leading his state, South Australia.
“I think I’m playing pretty well right now,” McSweeney said after the first match against India A, where he sealed victory with an unbeaten 88 at No. 4. “I’m pretty confident in my game. I’m progressing and I’m hitting some “one of the best innings I’ve ever played. I hope I can continue learning and improve if the opportunity arises, I feel like I’m ready.”
Harris appeared to have made a strong case for selection with a hard-fought 74 in the first innings against India A in Melbourne, but it was not enough to return him to the Test group. Sam Konstas sealed the match victory with a superb tackle at number 4, but after the early season excitement with his twins against South Australia, it has been decided it is too early for the 19-year-old. Cameron Bancroft’s horrendous performance meant he was knocked out of contention.
Inglis will captain Australia for the first time later on Sunday in the deciding ODI against Pakistan and then in the three-match T20I series, meaning he will join the Test squad once those matches are completed.
Australia squad for first test against India
Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc
