Australian head coach Andrew McDonald defended the selection committee’s decision to replace Nathan McSweeney with Sam Konstas mid-series. He stated this decision aims to present a fresh challenge to India. McSweeney’s removal stems from a series of low scores in the initial three Tests.
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke criticised the decision to drop McSweeney. However, McDonald explained that sometimes difficult decisions are necessary.
“We wanted to throw a new challenge at India. We believe Nathan is good enough for the Test level. We weren’t sure about how the top order is functioning. So yeah we challenged ourselves with that decision,” said the head coach ahead of the fourth Test.
McDonald acknowledged the potential for debate surrounding the decision. He emphasised that selection choices often spark discussion.
“Whether it works or not, time will tell. There will be debate around this should he or shouldn’t he. Selections are highly debated.”
Nineteen-year-old Konstas is set to become the 468th Australian man to play Test cricket. He will receive his Baggy Green in the Boxing Day Test starting Wednesday. This makes Konstas the youngest Test debutant for Australia since Pat Cummins in 2011.
“We wanted clarity for our batting unit before the team meeting,” McDonald said.
Selector Tony Dodemaide informed Konstas about his selection during training at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday. This deviated from the usual protocol of the Australian captain announcing the playing XI on the eve of the match.
“It’s (breaking the news) something we don’t usually do because haven’t had too many moving parts, but we thought we’d get that out of the way so everyone knows that he’s in the team,” said McDonald.
McDonald described Konstas’ demeanor within the team. He highlighted Konstas’ composure, understanding of his game, and diverse shot selection.
“He (Konstas) has been very similar to what I’ve seen on the outside within (the team) — composed, relaxed, knows his game. And what he’s shown is an array of shots, the ability to put pressure back on to opponents and he gets his opportunity,” he added.
McDonald dismissed concerns regarding Usman Khawaja’s form. He expressed confidence in Khawaja’s methods and predicted a return to form.
“I think Usman is not a concern. The way he is preparing runs will come. He knows his methods and any good player following methods will return among runs.”
Travis Head, a standout performer in the series with two centuries, sustained a minor quad strain on the final day of the third Test at the Gabba. Head, who was the player of the match in the two preceding Tests, opted for throw-downs from assistant coach Brad Hodge instead of facing his fast-bowling teammates in the nets on Tuesday.
“I thought he looked good with the bat in his hands so obviously the skills are in good order. It will just be what risk is associated with that,” said McDonald.
McDonald expressed optimism about Head’s fitness for the game. He noted Head’s ability to run.
“But no concerns from my end, he’s been able to do his running so I think he’ll be functional come game time.”
McDonald refrained from speculating about potential replacements for Head. The uncapped Josh Inglis and Beau Webster are on standby in the squad.
Scott Boland is almost certain to replace Josh Hazlewood, who is nursing a calf strain.
McDonald addressed the expected high temperatures during the Boxing Day Test. He suggested the pitch might favor batsmen as the match progresses.
“This wicket might offer the batters a little bit more in terms of the surface as the game draws on. If we didn’t pick Scotty (Boland) here — and I know I’m not allowed to declare the team because that’s Pat’s (Cummins) job tomorrow — but I don’t think I’m coming to the ground Boxing Day if Scotty’s not in the eleven.”
McDonald expressed confidence in the team’s bowling depth. He mentioned Mitch Marsh’s fitness and bowling capabilities.
“We’ve got great depth in our bowling, and (all-rounder) Mitch Marsh is fully fit and able to bowl. But he (Boland) is ready to go and he’ll play a role in this Test match with the ball more so than the previous ones.”
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