Ignored Australia batter Nathan McSweeney went on to score a fabulous double-century against the England Lions. With Usman Khawaja out of the second Test due to injury and Travis Head having to bat in his place as an opener, McSweeney could prove to be a good replacement option for the Baggy Greens in the third Ashes Test that will commence from December 17.
The 26-year-old McSweeney remained unbeaten on 222 as Australia A posted a mammoth total of 554/7 on the board in reply to England Lions' total of 166 in their first innings. The hosts currently have a lead of 388 runs and looking at McSweeney's form, he may even be looking to cross the 300-run mark as the play resumes on Day 3.
The batter has been top form as of recent, playing an important knock of 63 for the Prime Minister's XI against an experienced England bowling attack. With the double-century, McSweeney has made his case strong for selection for the third Test against England that will be held in Adelaide Oval.
McSweeney to be used as an opener?
Though McSweeney generally bats at No.3 or 4, he had opened the innings against India in three matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25. Thus, he can be used as an opener as well in the upcoming Ashes Tests if he continues to perform brilliantly. He has so far only played three Tests for the Baggy Greens, scoring a total of just 72 runs with no fifties or centuries..
Konstas also in contention
Another out-of-favour Australia batter who sent a firm message to the selectors with his perfformance in domestic cricket is Sam Konstas.The 20-year-old scored a fine hundred for the New South Wales in a recent Sheffield Shield encounter against Queensland. Though he was expected to be in the squad for the first Ashes Test, he was not included after dismal performances in domestic cricket. It remains to be seen if any of the two batters will be able to make it to Australia's playing XI for the third Test.