For IND vs AUS Tests Australia close in on finding David Warner’s replacement as opener
Nathan McSweeney has emerged as the leading candidate to replace David Warner as Australia’s Test opener for the upcoming series against India. With Warner retiring from Test cricket earlier this year, Australia is in urgent need of a reliable opener for the five-match series starting on November 22. While Australia experimented with Steve Smith at the top, the selectors are now looking for a specialist opener. McSweeney’s performance in Australia A’s unofficial Test against India A has pushed him ahead of the pack.
Though McSweeney has never opened in the Sheffield Shield, his standout batting during the first unofficial Test, where he scored 39 and 88, has impressed selectors. His ability to anchor innings while facing quality bowling has positioned him as a strong contender. Before this match, other contenders like Sam Konstas and Marcus Harris were in the race, but their underwhelming performances have shifted focus to McSweeney.
Despite his lack of experience as an opener, the selectors are leaning toward him. However, they are expected to give Cameron Bancroft, Harris, and Konstas another chance in the second unofficial Test to secure their spots. The final decision for Australia’s squad in the first Test at Perth will be made soon. McSweeney may also feature in the team, even if not selected as an opener, as the team management considers various options, including MarnusLabuschagne opening with Usman Khawaja. If selected, McSweeney would be the first player since 1977 to open for Australia without having done so at the domestic level.