In-form McSweeney's lesson from tough Test initiation

Nathan McSweeney believes he is a better player for having had a brief Test stint, after smashing his highest first-class score in a timely reminder to Australian selectors.

The 26-year-old produced the best knock of his career on Saturday, blasting an unbeaten 226 for Australia A against the England Lions at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.

His eighth first-class century dwarfed his previous best of 127 not out.

It was McSweeney's second century of the summer, bouncing back after being dropped following three Tests against India last year when he averaged only 14.4.

"Playing Test cricket exposes a few opportunities to learn," McSweeney said.

"I definitely like to think that I've learned from those experiences, and I can continue to try and grow my game.

"I feel like I'm in a good spot at the moment.

"It's a game, we're probably never going to finish the puzzle, but really content with how it's shaping.

"Hopefully I can continue to learn and hopefully score some runs."

McSweeney is a natural No.3 or No.4, but was given the chance to open for Australia with Usman Khawaja. However, the pair were worked over by the world's best Test bowler, Jasprit Bumrah.

Khawaja is hopeful of being fit for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide on December 17, but it remains to be seen whether the 38-year-old is picked.

Travis Head and Jake Weatherald are averaging 76 after two innings opening together in the absence of Khawaja.

But if selectors believe Head should go back to No.5 when batting in Australian conditions, McSweeney could be up for an opening spot.

McSweeney's improvement against spin has him ideally placed to be in contention to tour India for a blockbuster series in early 2027.

The South Australia captain obliterated England spinner Shoaib Bashir, who was dropped for the start of the Ashes.

"Over the last 12 months, I've really tried to focus on trying to put the spinner under a little bit more pressure," McSweeney said.

"I was able to be sharp on my feet and try to expose their lengths as best I could."