Australia has announced a 15-member squad for the last two Tests against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Opening batsman Nathan McSweeney, who only scored 72 runs in the first three Tests, has been dropped. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who hit a century in the pink-ball practice match against India in Canberra, has received his first call-up to the national Test team.

For the upcoming Tests in Melbourne and Sydney, Sean Abbott, Jhye Richardson, and Beau Webster have also been included in the squad.

Josh Hazlewood, who got injured on Day 4 of the Gabba Test, will miss the entire series.

The team is exploring different ways to set up the lineup for the last two Tests of the series, according to Chair of Selectors George Bailey in a statement.

“Sam is joining the Test squad for the first time. His unique batting style brings something fresh, and we’re excited to see how he grows in the game. We still believe Nathan has what it takes to thrive at the Test level down the line. It was tough to leave him out,” he mentioned.

Tough test for the top-order batsmen.

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, and Marnus Labuschagne have struggled to score runs in the first three Tests against India, particularly against Jasprit Bumrah, who has posed a challenge for them.

Bailey acknowledged that the top-order hasn't been performing well, which led to the decision to bring Sam Konstas into the squad.

"It's been tough for the batters at the top of the order during this series, and we want to explore a different lineup for the next two matches," Bailey mentioned.

"With Josh Hazlewood out, Jhye gives us more options in fast bowling. It's great to see him making a successful comeback early in the domestic summer," he added.

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, and Marnus Labuschagne have struggled to score runs in the first three Tests against India, particularly against Jasprit Bumrah, who has posed a challenge for them.

Bailey acknowledged that the top-order hasn't been performing well, which led to the decision to bring Sam Konstas into the squad.

"It's been tough for the batters at the top of the order during this series, and we want to explore a different lineup for the next two matches," Bailey mentioned.

"With Josh Hazlewood out, Jhye gives us more options in fast bowling. It's great to see him making a successful comeback early in the domestic summer," he added.

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