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Nathan McSweeney Dropped from Border-Gavaskar Trophy Squad; Sam Konstas Earns Call-Up
In a bold move, Australia has dropped opener Nathan McSweeney for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Test series. McSweeney, who made his debut in the series opener in Perth, struggled to find form with scores of 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9, and 4 in the first three Tests. Taking his place is 19-year-old New South Wales opener Sam Konstas, who has been in scintillating form across domestic and international warm-up matches.
A Promising Start for Sam Konstas
Stellar Domestic and Warm-Up Performances
Konstas has been knocking on the selectors’ doors with consistent performances. He scored an unbeaten 73 against India A last month and followed it up with a commanding 107 in the pink-ball warm-up game for the Prime Minister’s XI. His recent run includes an 88 for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield and an explosive 27-ball 56 for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League.
Chair of Selectors George Bailey Comments
“Sam gets a call up to the Test squad for the first time. His style of batting offers a point of difference, and we look forward to watching his game develop further,” said George Bailey, Chair of Selectors.
He also emphasized the difficulty in dropping McSweeney. “We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different lineup for the next two matches.”
Australia Bolsters Bowling Options
Replacements for Hazlewood
With Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injury, the selectors have brought back fast bowler Sean Abbott along with Beau Webster. Jhye Richardson has also been added to the squad, providing depth in the pace bowling department.
Jhye Richardson’s Return
“In the absence of Josh Hazlewood, Jhye provides further options in the fast bowling space. It has been pleasing to see his successful return throughout the early part of the domestic summer,” Bailey added.
Challenges Ahead for Australia
With the series poised delicately, Australia will look to Konstas and the revamped bowling unit to step up and make an impact in the remaining matches. For more on Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
