Nathan McSweeney is Back: Can He Conquer Sri Lanka?

Nudgee College Old Boy Nathan McSweeney’s cricket journey has taken another unexpected turn. Just weeks after being dropped from the Australian Test side, the batsman finds himself back in the spotlight, handed a lifeline for the upcoming Sri Lankan tour.


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Nathan McSweeney : from Test discard to Sri Lankan saviour?

McSweeney’s initial foray into the Test arena saw him thrust into the opening role against a formidable Indian attack. He showed glimpses of his talent, but the challenge proved steep, and he was dropped after averaging just 14.40 in three matches. However, his reaction to the setback spoke volumes. He displayed remarkable grace, even reaching out to congratulate his replacement, Sam Konstas.

“We’re great mates,” Konstas revealed. “He texted me straight away congratulating me, which sums him up as a bloke because he’s so humble and very giving.”

Returning to his home state of Queensland, McSweeney found solace and support. His immediate response was a blistering innings of 78 off 49 balls for the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League.

Coming in at number four, McSweeney steadied the Heat’s innings after a top-order collapse, his knock including eight boundaries and two sixes. The Gabba roared its approval as their hometown hero strode onto the field, a performance that surely banished any lingering doubts and reminded everyone of his immense talent. It was a testament to his resilience and popularity.

Now, McSweeney has a chance to write a new chapter in Sri Lanka. The selectors, recognising his talent and resilience, have handed him a recall. While his future may lie in the middle order, where he has thrived for South Australia this summer, his ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial.

Spin takes centre stage

The squad announcement also signals a clear shift in strategy for the Australian team. With conditions in Sri Lanka expected to favour spin bowling, selectors have opted for a spin-heavy attack. The dry, turning pitches are likely to challenge Australia’s batsmen, particularly those who haven’t played extensively in the subcontinent. Todd Murphy and Matt Kuhnemann join Nathan Lyon, providing a variety of options for captain Steve Smith.

This strategic shift towards spin has paved the way for the selection of an exciting young prospect, Cooper Connolly. The 21-year-old all-rounder, capable of contributing with both bat and ball, is seen as one of the brightest young talents in the country. Connolly’s selection adds another dimension to the Australian side and highlights the selectors’ focus on building for the future.


Read: Nathan McSweeney: Grace Under Pressure as Konstas Steps Into the Spotlight


As the Australian team prepares for the challenges of Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on Nathan McSweeney as he seeks to prove that his Test career is far from over.

Published 09-January-2025

Nathan McSweeney: Grace Under Pressure as Konstas Steps Into the Spotlight

A standout performance for Nathan McSweeney—an unbeaten 78 off 49 balls—for the Brisbane Heat against the Adelaide Strikers highlights his resilience and character. Just days after learning he would not retain his spot in the Australian Test squad for the Boxing Day Test, the Nudgee College old boy demonstrated the determination that has defined his cricket journey.


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From grace under pressure

The Brisbane-born cricket star responded to his Test omission with remarkable poise. McSweeney was among the first to contact his replacement, Sam Konstas, offering congratulations and support. “We are great mates,” Konstas revealed. “He texted me straight away congratulating me, which sums him up as a bloke because he is so humble and very giving.”

Returning to his hometown provided McSweeney with the ideal place to come to terms with the news. “If there’s ever a place to come back to after getting some bad news, it’s here with family and some of the boys I grew up playing with,” McSweeney told ABC Sport. The Gabba crowd roared for their hometown hero as he walked out to bat in the BBL match, a powerful display of local support.

New chapter for Nathan McSweeney

McSweeney’s struggles against India’s pace attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, who dismissed him four times in six innings, contributed to his averaging 14.40 in three Tests. Yet, former England captain Michael Vaughan sees a silver lining, suggesting McSweeney’s future lies in the middle order. “I think he will end up being an Australian Test cricketer, but I don’t think it’ll be up the top of the order,” Vaughan told Fox Sports.

“If I was McSweeney, next time I get the chance to wear the baggy green, I’d want him to be in the position that he’s played all his life.”

Sam Konstas, the Greek prodigy

As McSweeney charts his path forward, all eyes turn to his 19-year-old replacement. Sam Konstas is poised to become Australia’s fourth-youngest Test debutant, joining the ranks of Ian Craig, Pat Cummins, and Tom Garrett. The young Australian of Greek descent has captured attention with his standout Sheffield Shield season, averaging 55.83 and becoming the youngest player since Ricky Ponting to score twin centuries in a Shield match.

Selection committee chairman George Bailey cited the need for a fresh approach against India as the catalyst for change. “I think Sam’s method, his style, is different to Nathan’s, providing the option of a different look and a different make-up for the XI come Boxing Day,” Bailey explained.

Konstas has already proven his mettle against quality opposition, scoring 107 for the PM’s XI against the touring Indians. His composed performance during a challenging session under lights at the SCG, marked by classical stroke play and maturity beyond his years, convinced many of his readiness for Test cricket.


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Looking ahead

As cricket’s carousel turns, McSweeney’s immediate response—both on and off the field—suggests his Test story may have only just begun. His BBL performance serves as a reminder of his all-format capabilities, while his graceful handling of the situation has earned widespread respect.

For Nathan McSweeney, surrounded by family and friends in Queensland this Christmas, the focus remains clear. Reflecting after his BBL innings, he echoed the words of Marnus Labuschagne: “It is not where it starts, it is where it ends, and every good story has its ups and downs.” His story, it seems, is far from over.

Published 24-December-2024