Australia announces squad including two uncapped players for first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against India

New Delhi: Australia has announced their 13-member squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series against India, which includes two new faces: Josh Inglis and Nathan McSweeney. The selection of the opening partner for Usman Khawaja was a crucial decision, with players like McSweeney, Sam Kontas, Cameron Bancroft, and Marcus Harris vying for the spot. After impressive performances in the practice matches against India A, McSweeney was chosen for the role, having scored 39, 88, 14, and 47 in his four innings.

Josh Inglis earned his spot in the squad after a strong performance in the Shield, where he scored centuries in each match he played this year. His inclusion was somewhat unexpected, as Australia typically favors adding extra bowlers over additional batters to the lineup. However, Inglis’s consistent form made a compelling case for his selection.

Australia’s selector George Bailey expressed confidence in the squad, describing it as well-balanced. He highlighted Nathan McSweeney’s potential, noting that the 25-year-old would be a strong choice for a Test debut in Perth if given the opportunity. Bailey’s remarks reflect the team’s faith in McSweeney’s recent performances and readiness for the international stage.

“Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket,” Bailey said as quoted by ICC.

“His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favour and supports our view he is ready for the opportunity at Test level. Similarly, Josh has been in great touch in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in his first Test squad. Scott has been a top-level performer when given the opportunity at Test level and remains a valued member of the squad,” he added.

“The squad is balanced and provides Andrew and Pat the options required for what shapes as a captivating series.”

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc (first Test only)

India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed