Australia’s young opener Nathan McSweeney admitted to be under pressure ahead of the Test debut but said that he’s ready for the opportunity. Notably, India and Australia are all set to lock horns in a five-match Test series beginning from November 22 at Perth Stadium, Perth. McSweeney is likely to make his debut in the series opener and will be seen opening alongside Usman Khawaja.
McSweeney earned his spot on the back of stellar performances in the Sheffield Shield tournament followed by a match-winning knock for Australia A against India A. Ahead of his Test debut, McSweeney opened up on his experience of facing Indian bowlers and admitted to being under pressure ahead of the first Test but said that it’s all a part of the game.
“Yeah, it was a good challenge, you know, I think it’s great preparation to face such quality bowlers. India got to be a great side and to spend time at, at the WACA with a nice bouncy track was, yeah, really good preparation. Oh, I think, yeah, it’s all part of it. I’m just really excited to get my chance and play for my country, so, no doubt there’ll be nerves and a bit of pressure, but that’s all part of it, and I’m, I’m just excited to see what it all brings,” McSweeney told media in Perth.
Further speaking ahead, the Brisbane-born cricketer said that he felt lucky to have been given the opportunity and said that he’s confident and ready for the game.
“Yeah, I think I’m playing some of the best cricket I have, I feel like I’m definitely ready for the opportunity. Yeah, I’m super lucky to get given, given a go and, and hopefully I can go out there and execute what I’ve been able to do at shield level and A level, so, um, yeah, I’m, I’m really confident and I’m really excited for Friday,” he added.
McSweeney’s brilliant form in recent times
Ever since David Warner’s retirement, Australia have struggled to find an opener and promoted their premier batter Steve Smith up the order. However, Smith failed to keep up his usual consistency at the opening spot and has now been asked to return to the middle order by the team management.
With Cameron Green also missing the series due to injury, the Australian team management was desperate to find a reliable opening batter. In the ongoing Sheffield Shield tournament, McSweeney has scored 291 runs from four innings at an average of 97 with one hundred and two fifties to his name. He further played a match-winning knock of 88* in the first unofficial Test against India A to help his team chase down 225 in the fourth innings.
McSweeney has scored 2252 runs from 34 first class matches so far at an average of 38.16 with six hundreds and 12 fifties. He will be eager to continue his good form as Australia take on India in the first Test on November 22.
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