Nathan McSweeney Aims to Overcome Bumrah in Third Test

Australia opener Nathan McSweeney is eager to take on India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the third Test at the Gabba, starting Saturday (00:20 GMT). The 25-year-old, who has been dismissed by Bumrah three times in four innings and has only managed nine runs against him is determined to improve and adapt to the challenge. “To face someone like Jasprit early in my career is invaluable. It’s not going to get much tougher than that,” McSweeney told Cricket Australia. “Hopefully, I’ll get better the more I face him and can throw a few more punches here at the Gabba.”

Bumrah has been a dominant force in the series, claiming 12 wickets in two Tests including a devastating 5-30 in India’s commanding 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth. Australia’s Mitchell Starc, with 11 wickets has been equally impressive, leading the charge in their pink-ball win in Adelaide. Despite Bumrah’s brilliance, McSweeney remains optimistic, seeing the challenge as an opportunity to grow.

Australia’s opening partnership struggles have persisted since David Warner’s retirement with McSweeney and Usman Khawaja managing just 24 runs in their best stand so far. However, solid contributions from Marnus Labuschagne with a gritty 64 in Perth and Travis Head’s aggressive 140 in Adelaide, provide hope for the batting lineup.

Reflecting on his encounters with Bumrah, McSweeney acknowledged the bowler’s unique angle and delivery style. “He’s a unique bowler, and it’s about adapting to his angle and where he delivers on the crease. I got two good balls from him in Perth, and he got me again in Adelaide. But I’m enjoying the experience and learning to craft a game plan against a world-class bowler,” he added.

The third Test promises an exciting contest as Nathan McSweeney looks to rise to the challenge.