Image: Sam Konstas replaces Nathan McSweeney on the Australian squad / © Heraldsun
Struggling in his early Test career, McSweeney has failed to score more than 10 runs in five of his six innings. Across three Tests, he has managed to score only 72 runs, with an average of 14.40. His performances have raised concerns as he finds it challenging to make an impact at the international level so far.
Australia has included Sam Konstas in their squad for the fourth Test in Melbourne, with a strong possibility of him opening the innings alongside experienced Usman Khawaja at the MCG. The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Nathan McSweeney is likely to be left out for this match, making way for Konstas in the playing XI.
Former Australia cricketer and selector Merv Hughes believes Nathan McSweeney should remain in the team despite his struggles. He argued that dropping McSweeney now would look like a panic decision and that Australia should give him more chances to prove himself at international cricket. He said:
Now it would almost be a panic call to me. There’s not that much they can do with the scheduling now. All the state players are in Big Bash mode. Just stay calm. They drew the last Test. The last two Tests have been a draw and a win, so what is there to panic about.
Scott Boland is set to return to the team, replacing Josh Hazelwood, who injured his calf during the Adelaide Test. The five-match series is tied at 1-1. India won the opening Test in Perth, Australia levelled the series in Adelaide and the third Test at Gabba ended in a draw.