Uncapped batsman Nathan McSweeney will open for Australia in the first Test against India in Perth later this month.
The South Australian skipper will partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order after previous openers Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft, along with teenager Sam Constance, were given preference.
The 25-year-old bats in the middle-order for his state but opened for Australia A in their last six-wicket win over India A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, scoring 14 and 25.
McSweeney took over at No.4 against India A in Mackay a week ago, scoring an unbeaten 88 in the second innings after scoring 39 in the first.
The right-hander averages 97-hundred-two-fifty from South Australia’s two Sheffield Shield matches this season.
Last year, he scored 762 runs in 10 first-class matches at an average of 40.10, with three tons and as many half-centuries.
Josh Inglis, who has played 51 white balls for Australia, has been included in the 13-man Test squad as a reserve batsman.
Speaking about McSweeney’s selection in the 13-man squad, which also includes wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, Australia’s head of selectors George Bailey said: in domestic cricket.
“His performances for South Australia and Australia A weighed in his favor and confirm our view that he is ready for the opportunity at Test level.”
Steve Smith opened alongside Khawaja after the retirement of David Warner earlier in the year but averaged 28.50 in eight innings against the West Indies and New Zealand with a best of 91 and will return to No.4 against India.
After the Perth Test, Australia will play India in Adelaide (from December 6), Brisbane (from December 14), Melbourne (from December 26) and Sydney (from January 3).
