Nathan McSweeney will open the batting for Australia in the first of five Test matches against India, starting later this month. In a surprise move, Josh Inglis has also been included in the 13-man squad announced on Sunday.

After David Warner retired in January, there was no clear choice to open alongside Usman Khawaja for the big Test series that kicks off in Perth on November 22. Steve Smith had briefly stepped into the role, but after not performing well, he will return to his usual number four position, right behind Marnus Labuschagne.

McSweeney, the 25-year-old South Australian captain, is set to make his Test debut after an impressive start to the domestic season. He’s been competing with Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and young star Sam Konstas for the spot. The decision came after two Australia A vs India A four-day matches that served as a “bat-off” to decide who would open.

In the first match in Mackay, McSweeney stood out with an unbeaten 88 while batting at number four. Though he didn’t score much when promoted to open in the second game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (only 14 and 25 runs), selectors were convinced by his overall performance.

Chief selector George Bailey said McSweeney has the qualities needed for Test cricket and has shown strong form in domestic matches. His consistent performances for South Australia and Australia A earned him this opportunity.

Travis Head is expected to bat at number five, while Mitchell Marsh will play as an allrounder after Cameron Green was ruled out due to back surgery. Alex Carey will keep wicket, and Josh Inglis has been picked as a backup batsman. Inglis, who has been performing well in the Sheffield Shield, was not initially considered as an opener but has now made it into the squad.

Australia’s fast-bowling attack will once again feature Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Spin legend Nathan Lyon is also part of the squad and will play his 130th Test match in Perth, looking to add to his tally of 530 wickets. Scott Boland will be the reserve fast bowler, with Michael Neser missing out due to injury.

After Perth, the series will move on to Adelaide for a day-night match, followed by Tests in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Australia’s Test squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc.