Nathan McSweeney edges closer to Test debut with first audition as opener

  • Australia A captain batted at No 4 in first tour match against India
  • Marcus Harris named to open ahead of Cam Bancroft and Sam Konstas

In-form Nathan McSweeney has one foot in the Test team after being confirmed as opener for the final Australia A game. The South Australia captain was the only contender for the vacant batting spot in Australia’s top six to fire in last week’s win against India A in Mackay.

McSweeney top-scored twice in the game, including hitting an unbeaten 88 in the second innings as Australia A sealed a seven-wicket victory over India A. The 25-year-old batted at No 4 in both innings of that match but has been promoted to open with Marcus Harris in the four-day match at the MCG starting on Thursday.

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Australia see off Rauf’s super spell to win tight first ODI against Pakistan

Ultra-aggressive Australia almost fumbled a certain victory, but eventually steadied after a lightning quick spell from Haris Rauf to beat Pakistan by two wickets in the first ODI at the MCG.

Chasing just 204, Australia crumbled to 139 for six in the 21st over as Rauf skittled the middle-order when the hosts were trying to end the game as quickly as possible. But the captain Pat Cummins (32 not out), playing his first ODI since last year’s stunning World Cup final triumph, was again there at the end in a tight chase as Australia got home with 99 balls to spare. One of the best quicks of his generation, Cummins has quickly become a specialist run-chaser in the last 18 months after being involved in two close Test wins and three ODI victories.

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