Nathan McSweeney, the Australian opener poised to make his Test debut against India in the upcoming Perth Test, is eagerly preparing for the formidable challenge posed by the Indian pace attack. McSweeney, who has been in impressive form domestically, was recently included in the 13-man squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener.
Despite typically batting at number four, McSweeney has been tasked with opening alongside Usman Khawaja against India. To prepare for this crucial role, he has been diligently studying videos of India’s quicks, including Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
“I’ll definitely dive a lot deeper into it when I get to Perth, but I can’t help myself,” McSweeney told Australian radio station SEN. “I’ve looked at a few clips of what their bowling attack stacks up like. I’m just trying to visualize how I’m going to go about it.”
McSweeney acknowledges the unique challenges of facing a new bowler, particularly one with an unorthodox action like Bumrah. “Facing a new bowler can be a slight challenge to just pick up their action,” he said. “I’ve got a whole week before I head off to Perth so I can get mentally ready and I guess it starts now in preparation to hopefully start really well.”
Despite the daunting task ahead, McSweeney is confident in his abilities and eager to seize the opportunity. “In the last month or so I really feel like I’m batting the best I ever have,” he said. “I think I’m the best I’ve ever been prepared to take this opportunity, so hopefully I can do that.”
McSweeney’s inclusion in the Test squad is a testament to his consistent performances in domestic cricket. He is currently the fifth-highest run-scorer in Australia’s domestic competition and earned his place in the side after solid performances during the ‘A’ matches against India.
The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence on November 22 in Perth, and McSweeney is determined to make a positive impact on his debut. “There’s plenty of learning and experiences that I haven’t experienced yet and I’m looking forward to learning all about the challenges of Test cricket and challenging my game against the very best,” he said.
