Canberra [Australia], June 20: Cricket Australia has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match away Test series against the West Indies, introducing significant changes from the squad selected for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
One of the most notable exclusions is Marnus Labuschagne, who has been dropped due to a prolonged lean patch in the longest format. Labuschagne’s recent performances, including his WTC final appearance where he scored 17 and 22 at Lord’s against South Africa, failed to meet expectations.
“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects. We will continue to support him as he works on regaining form,” said chief selector George Bailey, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Australia will also be without veteran batter Steve Smith, who sustained a compound dislocation in his right little finger while fielding during the WTC final. Smith injured himself attempting a slip catch off South Africa’s Temba Bavuma and has since been advised to rest with a splint for at least eight weeks.
“Steve needs more time for the wound to heal. We’ll reassess him after another week,” Bailey added.
With Labuschagne and Smith sidelined, Australia has brought in promising youngster Sam Konstas, who impressed during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who previously scored a century in his only Test outing against Sri Lanka.
“We’re excited to see Josh and Sam continue their Test journeys. Josh showed great intent and skill in Sri Lanka, and Sam has earned his place with consistent performances,” Bailey said.
Australia Test Squad:
Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
West Indies Test Squad:
Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Kevlon Anderson, Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales
The first Test is scheduled to begin on June 25 in the Caribbean.