Sam Konstas Test debut, Nathan McSweeney faces Boxing Day axe, problems faced by Jasprit Bumrah, India vs Australia Test series, Border Gavaskar Trophy, videos, latest news

Despite only making his Test debut last month, Nathan McSweeney is reportedly no longer guaranteed a place for Boxing Day against India at the MCG and could make way for the teenage sensation’s arrival Sam Konstas.

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According to reports from Daniel Brettig and Tom Decent of the Sydney Morning Herald, the South Australian captain’s opening position is up for debate ahead of this summer’s fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. CODE Sports reported that on Thursday evening, a behind-the-scenes campaign for Konstas led to him being added to the Boxing Day squad; although reserve hitter Josh Inglis also remains in the mix to play.

McSweeney had never opened at the state level before his call-up, facing a baptism of fire against one of the best Test bowlers in the history of the sport in Jasprit Bumrah.

He has failed to make more than 10 in five of his six Test innings so far, with the selectors apparently unsure about his position.

A positive approach would be favored by these selectors, and it remains to be seen whether they believe McSweeney is the man to stop Bumrah dictating terms on Australian soil.

A reshuffle of the batting order could also be on the cards, with McSweeney’s strike rate of just 34 during his Test career topping the order and averaging 14.4.

Rising NSW star Konstas and Victorian gun Marcus Harris were also candidates to open the batting before the start of this series.

Australia selectors and Pat Cummins would unveil their squad for the MCG Test on Friday, with Scott Boland set to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood.

Josh Inglis and Beau Webster will likely also be included, with a chance to debut if McSweeney is omitted from the squad.

Despite his lack of racing, the South Australian told Nine News: “This whole summer has been a dream come true, and without a doubt (I have) a lot to learn, and hopefully a little more of time in the middle to come.”

The 25-year-old made 88 runs against India A in early November and has scored two centuries for South Australia this domestic season.