Sydney, Aug 7 (PTI) In a strategic move, Australian cricket has named promising openers Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney in the 'A' squad to face India's A side in two upcoming four-day matches in Lucknow. Konstas, who previously made a mark in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, is the standout inclusion, given his current status as the only Test player in the 'A' squad.
Konstas, 19, had replaced McSweeney in the previous India-Australia series on home soil but struggled to secure his place permanently at the top of the order. Despite Australia's strong showing in the Caribbean, Konstas had a tough time establishing himself. Known for his aggressive half-century on debut in the Melbourne Test, where he notably had an on-field run-in with Indian superstar Virat Kohli, Konstas was unable to maintain his early form as controversies and lack of opportunity saw him sidelined.
Meanwhile, spinner Todd Murphy, with 14 wickets from seven Tests, returns to action after a notable performance during Australia's challenging 2022-23 India tour, where they fell short 1-2 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australia's chairman of selectors, George Bailey, emphasized the importance of exposure to subcontinental conditions, stating, "The subcontinent provides many unique challenges and the opportunity to utilize different skills with bat and ball. Repeated experiences in these conditions will help players develop effective methods and understanding of their game for future subcontinent tours." He also noted the importance of balancing player availability for the Sheffield Shield, adding depth to both their red-ball and short-form cricket.
Missing from the red-ball squad are Jason Sangha, who recently made headlines with an unbeaten 202 against Sri Lanka A, and Matthew Renshaw, who has prior Test experience in India.
The four-day matches in Lucknow are slated for September 16-19 and September 23-26, followed by three one-day games on September 30, October 3, and 5.
Four-Day Match Squad: Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Aaron Hardie, Campbell Kellaway, Sam Konstas, Nathan McSweeney, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Oliver Peake, Josh Phillippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Liam Scott.
One-Day Squad: Cooper Connolly, Harry Dixon, Jack Edwards, Sam Elliott, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Mackenzie Harvey, Todd Murphy, Tanveer Sangha, Liam Scott, Lachie Shaw, Tom Straker, Will Sutherland, Callum Vidler.
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