Australia has named Nathan McSweeney as the opener for the first of five Tests against India, beginning in Perth on November 22. McSweeney's selection comes after a competitive "bat-off" between him and other candidates, including Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and rising star Sam Konstas. McSweeney, who captains South Australia, impressed selectors with his strong form in domestic cricket, including an unbeaten 88 for Australia A. Despite a modest return in the second Australia A match, his overall performances led to his elevation to the Test squad. 
 
Steve Smith, who briefly stepped into the opening role after David Warner's retirement, will return to his usual number four spot, while Marnus Labuschagne remains in his position at three. Travis Head will bat at five, with Mitchell Marsh filling the all-rounder role following Cameron Green's injury. 
 
Josh Inglis was a surprise inclusion in the 13-man squad, with the white-ball opener picked as a backup batsman, despite earlier statements ruling him out as a Test opener. Chief selector George Bailey praised Inglis for his strong form in the Sheffield Shield competition. 
 
The bowling attack will feature the experienced pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, along with Nathan Lyon, who is set to play his 130th Test match. Scott Boland is named as the backup quick bowler, with Michael Neser ruled out due to injury. After Perth, the series moves to Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.