Matt Renshaw has admitted that a lot of openers in Australia would have been left frustrated by Nathan McSweeney getting the nod to start the innings in the upcoming Perth Test against India. In the current Sheffield Shield season, McSweeney has been in fine form, amassing 291 runs from four innings at an impressive average of 97, with one century and two half-centuries to his credit.
Leading Australia A in their four-day clash against India A, he made notable contributions of 39 in the first innings and an unbeaten 88 in the second, guiding his team to successfully chase 226 runs in the fourth innings and secure a seven-wicket victory.
In the ongoing red-ball season, the 25-year-old has scored 541 runs at a stellar average of 90.16. In his first-class career so far, McSweeney has accumulated 2,086 runs in 32 matches, averaging 37.25 with six centuries and 11 fifties. However, McSweeney has yet to open the batting in his first-class career and was given the job for the 2nd unofficial Test against India A.
Speaking to AAP, Renshaw, who seemed like a forgotten man in the discussion, said he was happy for McSweeney but felt many of the openers were left hurt by Cricket Australia’s call.
“I am really happy for Nathan. I think he is going to do a terrific job but for us openers, I think [the decision] last week might have hurt a lot of us.”
“We know how tough opening is and the satisfaction of batting for a long period of time is why we do the job, facing the toughest bowlers with a brand new ball at their freshest,” said Renshaw.
Despite the snub, Renshaw feels that he will certainly add to his 14 Test caps son.
“Definitely. I feel like I am not too far away,” he said. “Obviously timing is huge in cricket. I missed my time on this occasion but there will be another time in the future when I have to be ready,” said Renshaw.
Renshaw did send a message to the selectors with a hundred for Queensland during their match against Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield.
