David Warner has backed Nathan McSweeney to shine as Australia’s new opener, urging patience and predicting a standout Test summer for the 25-year-old.
New Delhi: Former Australian opener David Warner has expressed confidence in his replacement, Nathan McSweeney, backing the 25-year-old South Australian batter to achieve the “highest score” in the upcoming Test summer. Warner urged patience with the youngster, who is taking on the monumental task of filling his shoes as the opening batter for Australia ahead of the first Test in Perth. With the much-anticipated match approaching, McSweeney is expected to be eager to make his mark.
Nathan McSweeney secured his spot as Australia’s opener after winning a “bat-off” in the recently concluded Australia A-India A series, where he top-scored with 166 runs across two matches, including a match-winning 88 in the first game. The 25-year-old outperformed stiff competition from U19 sensation Sam Konstas and seasoned domestic players Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft, earning his place in the high-profile Test series against India.
Nathan McSweeney boasts an impressive first-class record, amassing 2,252 runs in 34 matches at an average of 38.16. His achievements include six centuries, 12 fifties, and a career-best score of 127*.
Speaking to Fox Cricket, David Warner praised Nathan McSweeney, stating that the young opener possesses a fine technique.
“McSweeney has got a good technique and we know he can bat for long periods of time,” Warner stated.
It is a great time for him to come in; it is a big series,” Warner added.
The batting legend highlighted McSweeney’s technique and patience, expressing confidence in his ability to partner with Usman Khawaja and score big runs, while eagerly anticipating his performance.
“I have pencilled him (McSweeney) in for the highest run score this summer, so I am looking forward to that. I am also looking forward to seeing how he adapts batting with someone like Usman Khawaja as well, because it is a partnership that you have to build,” he added.
Warner urged the selectors and everyone else to be patient with the youngsters and give them “two summers”.
“We have just got to be patient with all the guys that are coming through now. Uzzie (Usman Khawaja) is touching on 38 now as well, he has probably got another 12 to 18 months to go” said Warner.
“He is (McSweeney) 25 years of age; you’ve got to give guys a crack … it would be exciting just to see him score some runs first and establish himself — but if he does not just give him some time, give him maybe two summers,” he added.
McSweeney’s impressive first-class form this year, with 718 runs in eight matches at an average of 51.28, including two centuries and five fifties, could prompt selectors to back him despite potential setbacks.
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