In the upcoming WI vs AUS Test, Australia will miss two key players as selectors dropped Marnus Labuschagne and ruled Steve Smith out due to injury. The first Test begins on June 25 in Barbados. Labuschagne’s poor run of form and Smith’s finger injury, which he sustained during the World Test Championship Final, forced Australia to reshuffle their lineup significantly.
In 2023, Labuschagne averaged just 34.91 in Test cricket. Furthermore, in 2024, his average dipped to 30.93. So far this year, he has averaged only 16. His performance in the WTC Final, where he scored 17 and 22 as an opener, proved costly.
As a result, the selectors decided to give Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas a shot at the big leagues. Inglis made quite a splash earlier this year with a stunning century on his debut in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Konstas also caught the eye during the Boxing Day Test against India. Selection Chair George Bailey mentioned that both of these young talents earned their opportunity.
Additionally, Bailey spoke about Labuschagne’s future. “Marnus at his best is a key asset. He knows his performance hasn’t matched expectations. We’ll continue supporting him as he works through this phase,” Bailey said in a statement.
At the same time, Steve Smith, who dislocated his finger during the WTC Final, managed to avoid surgery. However, the doctors recommended that he wear a splint for the next eight weeks. He is traveling with the team and might return for the second Test starting on July 3. His return depends on how well he handles the bat with the splint.
Following that, Bailey said, “Steve needs more time to recover. We have decided to rest him this week. Josh and Sam will fill in. We are eager to watch them grow in Test cricket.”
Currently, Australia hasn’t finalized its batting order. However, it looks like Konstas will step in to open the innings, taking Labuschagne’s spot. Meanwhile, Inglis is expected to fill the middle order role in Smith’s absence.
Ultimately, Australia’s squad shake-up ahead of the WI vs AUS Test adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming contest. With experienced players like Labuschagne and Smith sidelined, all eyes are now on newcomers Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis. Their performances could shape the series and signal a new phase in Australia’s Test cricket journey.
