Australia Opener Nathan McSweeney Set for Big Challenge Against India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

In Desk

Nov 12, 2024 • 1 min read

Perth, Nov 12 (PTI): Australia opener Nathan McSweeney is ready to face the unique challenge of facing India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the upcoming series against India, starting with the first Test in Perth.

McSweeney has been impressive in the Sheffield Shield tournament and the recent 'A' series against India, prompting his selection in the Australia squad. He will partner Usman Khawaja at the top in the series opener and will be looking to make a big impact with the bat.

The 25-year-old South Australian has been studying the bowling clips of Indian quicks, including Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, to prepare himself mentally for the challenge. "There's probably not (much I can do to replicate how Bumrah bowls). Obviously, he's got a unique action," McSweeney told SEN.

McSweeney, who captained the Australia A side in the 2-0 series win against India A, believes that facing a new bowler can be a slight challenge to pick up his action. "I'll definitely dive a lot deeper into it when I get to Perth... I'm just trying to visualise how I'm going to go about it," he said.

Despite the looming challenge, McSweeney exudes confidence in his abilities. He feels that he is batting the best he ever has and believes that he is better prepared than ever to take this opportunity.

McSweeney will step into the shoes of David Warner, who retired from international cricket after the home Test series against Pakistan in January. "Being an opening batter, it's making sure I'm leaving the ball well and making the bowlers are bowling to me," McSweeney said. "Then being ready and positive to score when they miss is as simple as I want to make it."

The Australia opener believes that if he reacts well and executes his plan, it will equate to him spending time in the middle and chipping away at the scoreboard.

With the series starting soon, McSweeney is raring to go. "I'm just looking forward to all of that [the bowling action]... I can't wait," he said.

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