New Delhi: Nathan McSweeney has it in him to excel as an opener in the five-match Test series against India that begins in Perth on November 22, says the retired David Warner.
McSweeney has been included in Australia’s squad for the Border-Gavaskar series, which has raised eyebrows in certain quarters.
The 25-year-old hasn’t opened in domestic cricket and was picked to replace Warner, who retired after the T20 World Cup in June.
McSweeney impressed when given chance to bat at the top during the second unofficial Test against India A and Warner backed to perform in the Test series against India.
“It’s a great time for him to come in; it’s a big series,” Warner said told Fox Cricket on Tuesday.
“I think he’s got the technique (and) the patience to partner up with Uzzie to allow himself to score big. I’ve pencilled him (McSweeney) in for the highest run score this (summer), so I’m looking forward to that.
“I’m also looking forward to seeing how he adapts batting with someone like Usman Khawaja as well, because it’s a partnership that you have to build.”
Opening riddle
After Warner’s retirement, Steve Smith was tried out as opener with mixed results, forcing him to return to his preferred No.4 spot.
Who will partner Usman Khawaja up top has been a topic of debate in Australia and picking McSweeney has led to varied opinions. Warner wants McSweeney to be given time to adjust as facing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah is a significant challenge.
“We’ve just got to be patient with all the guys that are coming through now. Uzzie is touching on 38 now as well, he’s probably got another 12 to 18 months to go,” Warner said.
“He’s (McSweeney) 25 years of age; you’ve got to give guys a crack… it’d be exciting just to see him score some runs first (and) establish himself. But if he doesn’t, just give him some time, give him maybe two summers.”
McSweeney has been included in Australia’s squad for the Border-Gavaskar series as opener, which has raised eyebrows in certain quarters. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
