Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Australia announce squad for first Test against India

Australia has announced its squad for the opening Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, scheduled for November 22 at Optus Stadium in Perth. Notably, Nathan McSweeney, Australia A captain, earned his maiden call-up after an impressive innings of 88* in the recent unofficial Test against India A in Mackay.

McSweeney, 25, who has a strong domestic record with 2252 runs in 34 First-Class games, will likely open the innings, following high praise from chief selector George Bailey.

“Nathan has displayed the attributes we believe will equip him well for Test cricket along with a strong recent record in domestic cricket."

“His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favour and support our view that he is ready for the opportunity at Test level."

The 13-member squad also includes wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who is set to lead Australia in an ODI match against Pakistan on November 10. Inglis, who has accumulated 3029 runs in 57 First-Class games, will be joining the Test squad for the first time.

“Similarly, Josh has been in great touch in the Sheffield Shield competition and deserves his place in his first Test squad," Bailey said about the wicketkeeper-batter.

In addition to McSweeney and Inglis, familiar names return to strengthen Australia’s lineup. Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh, rested from the current ODI series, are set to bat in the middle order, while Pat Cummins will lead a pace attack featuring Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland.

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