Bailey Discusses Unique Approach with Konstas Call-Up for India Series
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New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) Australia's chief selector George Bailey stated that the intention to introduce something distinct against India in the final two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy prompted the inclusion of teenager Sam Konstas and the decision to leave out Nathan McSweeney.
Bailey also recognized that it was a challenging choice to drop McSweeney, who scored only 72 runs in the initial three Tests at a modest average of 14.40, particularly considering he had not previously opened in first-class cricket. He did not confirm whether Konstas would debut in the Boxing Day Test against India at the MCG, starting on December 26.
"Making this decision was tough, and it was a significant deliberation for Nathan, especially given the limited data from three Tests. Nathan felt disappointed, and our message to him mirrored what we communicated at the series's outset," Bailey remarked.
"We believe he possesses the capability and composure to thrive at Test level. We're optimistic about his return. The manner in which our top three have been performing has been relatively similar, which is why we want to offer something different to India in light of that," Bailey was quoted by cricket.com.au on Friday.
He further justified the selection of McSweeney, who competed for the second opener position with Konstas, Marcus Harris, and Cameron Bancroft. "In the lead-up to the (Test) series, he was exhibiting remarkable performance. The crucial part was that his playing style tends not to alter much regardless of where he bats in the order. Although it hasn't gone as well as hoped... it's still early in his career. Looking at the broader picture, I don't think the top six has performed at the expected level throughout this series. I believe Sam's approach and style differ from Nathan's... should we choose that direction.
"Moreover, they differ from Beau Webster and Josh Inglis, who are other batting alternatives within that (squad). We think they will provide a unique perspective and a different composition for the eleven come Boxing Day."
Bailey also addressed worries regarding Mitchell Marsh's ability to contribute with the ball, stating that the selections of Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott are precautionary, in case of further fitness challenges due to the back-to-back Melbourne and Sydney Tests.
Australia previously lost pacer Josh Hazlewood to a series-ending calf injury sustained during warm-ups ahead of day four’s play at the Gabba. "Had there been better weather towards the end of that (Brisbane) Test, and more overs in the second innings, you would have likely seen Mitch (Marsh) bowling significantly more.
"Mitch was, I'd argue, in the best position he's been throughout the entire series (to bowl). However, looking ahead... the quick turnaround from Melbourne to Sydney is a concern. So we're ensuring we have options available for those two Tests," he concluded.
