Former Australian opener David Warner has publicly endorsed Nathan McSweeney as a potential standout performer in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The prestigious Test series between Australia and India is scheduled to commence on Friday in Perth.
McSweeney, the 25-year-old captain of the South Australian cricket team, is poised to make his Test debut for Australia. He has been chosen to open the batting alongside the experienced Usman Khawaja in the first Test.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
The opening batsman position became available due to Steve Smith‘s decision to return to his preferred batting position at number four. McSweeney’s recent experience as an opener is limited, stemming from a solitary match against India A in Melbourne. In that game, he registered scores of 14 and 25.
Despite the limited exposure, Warner expressed unwavering confidence in McSweeney’s ability to acclimatize to the demands of opening the batting at the highest level.
“I think he’s got the technique, he’s got the patience to partner up with Uzzy (Khawaja) to allow himself to score big,” Warner said during a media interaction in Melbourne.
“I’ve pencilled him in to be the highest run-scorer this year, so I’m looking forward to that.”
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Warner highlighted the complementary batting styles of McSweeney and Khawaja, emphasizing their shared attribute of patience at the crease. He believes their approach could provide a solid foundation for the Australian batting lineup.
“I think they’ve both got the same sort of patience, which is going to be good for them and hold the middle order in good stead,” Warner added.
McSweeney’s inclusion in the Australian Test squad signifies a generational transition within a predominantly experienced lineup. The majority of the players in the current squad are in their thirties, prompting discussions about succession planning.
Warner acknowledged the need for Australia to address the inevitable retirements of senior players in the near future. He specifically mentioned Usman Khawaja, who is 37 years old, as an example.
“Australia needs to think about succession planning, especially with players like Uzzy, who’s 37, nearing the end of their careers,” Warner said.
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However, Warner cautioned against rushing the development of young players like McSweeney. He urged the national selectors to exercise patience and allow McSweeney adequate time to establish himself in the challenging environment of Test cricket.
“It’s not just these five Test matches; it’s the signs that you see (McSweeney) as a talented batsman for the future,” he explained.
“You’ve got to give guys a crack. I know there are other guys that have been there—Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft—but it’d be exciting just to see him score some runs first to establish himself.”
Warner further emphasized the need for a long-term perspective on McSweeney’s development, even if he encounters initial setbacks.
“But if he doesn’t [score runs immediately], just give him some time, give him maybe two summers.”