Australia selectors have decided to drop Marnus Labuschagne for the opening Test against the West Indies in Barbados after a disappointing World Test Championship (WTC) final loss to South Africa at Lord’s.
And if that wasn’t enough change, Steve Smith will also miss out due to injury. Suddenly, Australia’s top order looks very different.
Time Out for Marnus
Marnus Labuschagne has been under the scanner for a while, and now the axe has finally come down—at least for now.
He managed just 17 and 22 at Lord’s, continuing a lean patch that dates back to July 2023, when he last scored a Test hundred. Since then? A batting average of just 24.7 across 16 matches—a steep drop from his previous high standards.
“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team,” said George Bailey, chair of selectors. “But he knows his performances haven’t met expectations, and we’ll work with him to help him rediscover his game.”
There’s no question Labuschagne remains part of Australia’s future plans—but for now, he’s on the sidelines.
Smith’s Injury Opens Another Spot
While Labuschagne’s omission was about form, Steve Smith’s absence is injury-related.
He suffered a finger injury while fielding at slip during the WTC final and didn’t return to the field—watching South Africa’s dramatic run chase unfold from the pavilion.
“Steve needs more time to heal,” Bailey confirmed. “We’ll reassess after another week of rest.”
Konstas and Inglis Step In
19-year-old Sam Konstas is back in the mix after a thrilling start to his Test career. His debut against India in December turned heads—60 off 65 balls, complete with fearless scoop shots off Jasprit Bumrah. That’s not something you see every day.
Though he managed just 53 runs in his next three innings, Konstas’s raw flair and fearless intent have kept him in the reckoning.
Joining him in the playing XI will be Josh Inglis, who impressed on debut with a century against Sri Lanka in January. His batting and wicketkeeping versatility give Australia plenty of flexibility heading into the Barbados Test.
Final XI Still Up in the Air
Bailey added that the final batting order and playing XI of Australia will be finalised closer to the Test against the West Indies. But one thing’s clear—Australia are embracing change.
With Pat Cummins leading the side and names like Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, and Alex Carey still in the squad, Australia will look to strike a balance between experience and youth in this new phase.
Led by Roston Chase, the West Indies have their own mix of familiar faces and rising stars—Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, and Shamar Joseph will be key players to watch. The visitors will sense a real opportunity with Australia missing two pillars of their batting order.
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