McSweeney to open, Inglis also handed maiden Test call up for BGT opener

Nathan McSweeney and Josh Inglis join Australia's Test squad for the series opener against India in Perth.

Uncapped Nathan McSweeney won the race to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja in the first Test against India while Australia also handed a maiden Test call up to Josh Inglis on Sunday (November 10, 2024).

These two are the new faces in an otherwise expected 13-member squad announced by Cricket Australia just for the series opener starting in Perth on November 22.

The South Australian had emerged as a strong contender for the opener's spot, earning backing from the likes of David Warner and Ricky Ponting. He has been picked ahead of specialist openers Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and Sam Konstas for the spot.

"We are just really thrilled with Nathan’s game. I think over the last 12 to 15 months, we have seen a player whose growth is on a great trajectory," Chairman of selectors George Bailey said.

"He is a very organised, composed player at the crease and he’s got a game that will really suit Test cricket. He can probably speak more to that but I don't think it’s a huge adjustment to go from three to opening,” Bailey said.

"I think in the 15 or so games that he’s been batting three for South Australia, he’s been in before the 10th over about 20 times, so he’s had plenty of experience. And as I said, his game and the way he plays, I don’t think the adjustment will be too much.” The 25-year-old has been rewarded for his consistent performances in the Sheffield Shield over the past couple of years, as well as his role as captain and batter during the recently concluded A tour matches against India.

"Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket."