Australia has made a bold decision ahead of the final two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024, dropping Nathan McSweeney and bringing in 19-year-old opener Sam Konstas. The decision comes after the third Test in Brisbane ended in a rain-affected draw, leaving the series tied at 1-1.
Waugh Backs the Decision
Former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh supported the selectors’ move, attributing it to the need for more aggressive batting at the top order. Speaking on Fox Cricket, Waugh explained, “They’ve chosen Konstas to add a positive stroke-playing option at the top of the lineup, especially since Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne have been slightly out of form.”
He added that McSweeney, who debuted earlier in the series but struggled to make an impact, was excluded as part of a “process of elimination” to strengthen the squad for the decisive matches. Waugh predicted that Konstas would open the innings alongside Khawaja in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Hussey Questions the Call
Michael Hussey, however, expressed sympathy for McSweeney, noting that he faced formidable bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah during challenging conditions. Speaking on the situation, Hussey remarked, “It’s exciting for Sam, but it’s a tough call on McSweeney. The conditions haven’t been easy for openers on either side, and facing someone like Bumrah on these lively pitches is no small task.”
Hussey also highlighted the contribution of Australia’s top order in consuming time at the crease, allowing middle-order players like Travis Head and Alex Carey to play their natural attacking game. “It’s not just about scoring runs; it’s about setting up the innings for the team,” he explained.
Focus on Winning the Series
Waugh emphasized that Australia’s priority is to win the remaining two matches, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a spot in the World Test Championship final on the line. “This is a huge series,” he said. “The selectors are focused on picking the best XI to win the MCG and Sydney Tests, even if it means sidelining players like McSweeney.”
The Series So Far
India started the series with a dominant victory in Perth, but Australia bounced back with a strong performance in Adelaide to level the series. The third Test in Brisbane appeared to be heading in Australia’s favor before rain forced a draw.
The fourth Test is scheduled to begin on Boxing Day (December 26) at the MCG, followed by the fifth and final match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series hanging in the balance, both teams will be aiming for a decisive edge in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion.
