New Delhi: Nathan McSweeney is aware that his inclusion in the Australian team for the first Test against India has raised quite a few eyebrows. But the opener remains confident of proving his doubters wrong when the match begins in Perth on November 22.
McSweeney has been picked to replace the retired David Warner to partner Usmam Khawaja at the top of the innings in the five-Test series for the Border Gavaskar Trophy.
Since McSweeney isn’t a specialist opener, his inclusion ahead of other regular openers including Marcus Harris has been questioned. Usually a No.3 batter in Australia’s domestic circuit, the 25-year-old batter impressed against India A earlier this month.
“I think for me I know what works and I feel very capable to go and do the job and I’m batting the best I ever have, I feel. Hopefully I can go out there and execute that on Friday,” McSweeney told the Sydney Morning Herald.
“It (criticism over his inclusion) happened quite quickly. You’re playing a bit of Big Bash, but there’s definitely more talk around playing for your country, as there should be, it’s what you wanted to do since you were a kid.
“Being able to lean on the guys who have experienced it, it doesn’t change the way I prepare or try and go out and play.
McSweeney has looked comfortable at nets against Australia’s formidable pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
“I’ve got so many supporters I want to make proud. So much family that’s sacrificed so much to get to where I am today and so many coaches that have thrown that many balls to me. Hopefully I can go out there and play really well and do them proud,” he added.
McSweeney received support from Australia batter Tarvis head, who didn’t want to speak on Warner’s replacement but said the 25-year-old fits the bill perfectly.
“(McSweeney) has had a good start, he’s a great character and he’s fitted in easily. It can sometimes be a bit full-on when it’s your first experience. But there’s excitement. If he does what he’s been doing, he’s going to fit in perfectly.
“With anyone starting their career it’s going to take time. He has the support in the change rooms and I hope he has support outside that. He’s deserved his selection and it’s an exciting few weeks for him,” Head said.
Nathan McSweeney has been picked to replace the retired David Warner to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the innings in the five-Test series for the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
