Nathan McSweeney is set to make his debut for Australia as an opening batter in the first Test against India in Perth. The 25-year-old recently tried opening the batting for the first time in a match against India A, where he scored 14 and 25 runs.

McSweeney will open alongside seasoned player Usman Khawaja. Another new face in the squad is Josh Inglis, who has been included in the 13-player group for the series.

The first Test kicks off on November 22, followed by games in Adelaide and Brisbane. Fans can also look forward to the iconic Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and the New Year’s Test in Sydney.

McSweeney, with a solid first-class average of 38.16 and six centuries to his name, was chosen over previous openers Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft. Australia is looking for a steady replacement for David Warner, who recently retired.

Steve Smith, who briefly opened earlier this year, has now returned to his preferred spot at number four. Marnus Labuschagne will bat at number three.

Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, will lead a strong bowling line-up that includes left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc, seamers Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland, along with spin specialist Nathan Lyon.

India has dominated recent Test series, winning the last four contests for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia squad for the first Test against India:

Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc.