Last Updated on 1 month by Charbel Coorey
Australia fans have criticised George Bailey and the management for dropping Nathan McSweeney ahead of the huge Boxing Day Test against India. McSweeney endured a difficult time particularly against the great Jasprit Bumrah, but so too have Usman Khawaja (4/17 off 71 balls against Bumrah this series) and Marnus Labuschagne (2/6 off 72 balls), both of whom have been under par in this World Test Championship cycle.
McSweeney was selected as opener for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after a strong run of form in Sheffield Shield cricket since the start of last season. He is a number three or four batsman by trade, but his temperament was enough for Bailey and co. to take a leap of faith.
That he has been dropped after three Tests – including a promising display at Adelaide – has not sat well with many Australian fans. Even former captain Michael Clarke was disappointed with the move. “I think it’s unfair on Nathan. He’s not the only one not making runs. He’s batting in the toughest conditions in Australia against the number one bowler in the world. I feel for him, I really do,” he said on the Beyond 23 podcast.
However, chair of selectors George Bailey believes McSweeney will come good in the future, but the point of difference that Sam Konstas provides is something the selectors wish to try.
“We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future,” said Bailey, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different lineup for the next two matches.”
Australia fans accuse team of being a “mates club” following Nathan McSweeney ommission
Fans were quick to point out other underperformers in the Australian team as many believe McSweeney has been made the scapegoat for the top order struggles. 38-year-old Khawaja is averaging 28.3 in his past 20 innings, while Labuschagne averages 27.3 in his last 31 knocks. However, the management prefers their experience and hope they will come good with the series on the line.
Also, Mitchell Marsh has been under par in this series, and his lack of bowling as the all-rounder is in the spotlight.
Bailey wouldn’t confirm Sam Konstas’ place in the XI, but all signs point to a direct swap. Scott Boland for the injured Josh Hazlewood is set to be the other change, with the remainder of the XI expected to remain the same.
The MCG Test is one Australia cannot lose if they wish to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. They must win the series outright. Plus, there is qualification for the World Test Championship Final up for grabs.
