Why has Nathan McSweeney been dropped from Australia squad for BGT 2024-25 4th and 5th Tests?

Australia have unveiled their 15-man squad for the final two Border-Gavaskar series Tests against India, as the selectors have swung the axe on Nathan McSweeney. He has averaged 14.40 in six innings in the ongoing series. Selectors have called up the dynamic Sam Konstas to the squad who is likely to partner Usman Khawaja at the top at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

McSweeney, who hardly opens in first-class cricket, was thrust into the position ahead of the big Test series. However, the 25-year-old struggled, with Jasprit Bumrah dismissing him on four out of six occasions. Nevertheless, the South Australian showed promise at the Adelaide Oval, grinding for 109 balls to score 39 as Australia leveled the series.

Chief Selector George Bailey addressed the selection decision, expressing his confidence in McSweeney's ability to succeed in the future. Bailey reckons Konstas' attacking style of play bodes well for them. He said (as quoted by cricket.com.au):

"We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future. It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series and we want to provide the option of a different line-up for the next two matches. His [Konstas] style of batting offers a point of difference and we look forward to watching his game develop further."

Konstas showed immense promise during the India A series against Australia A. The youngster also cracked a hundred for the Prime Minister's XI in the pink-ball warm-up match against India.

Australia denied the chance to go 2-1 up in Brisbane

Pat Cummins leads his team off the field. (Credits: Getty)

Meanwhile, the inclement weather in Brisbane played a decisive role in the Baggy Greens going to the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne with the series at 1-1. The hosts dominated most of the contest across facets and set up a bold declaration (89/7) on Day 5. However, rain had the final say.

Nevertheless, Pat Cummins and company must win in Melbourne to give themselves a chance to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.