Australia Stun Fans by Dropping Marnus Labuschagne for West Indies Test After WTC Final Loss
In a bold and unexpected move, Australia have dropped star batter Marnus Labuschagne for the first Test of their upcoming series against the West Indies, following a disheartening defeat to South Africa in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s. Additionally, talismanic batsman Steve Smith has been ruled out of the series opener due to a finger injury sustained during the same match. The announcements were made by chair of selectors George Bailey in Sydney on June 20, 2025.
Labuschagne, once regarded as the backbone of Australia’s middle order, has been grappling with a prolonged slump in form. His performance in the WTC Final was underwhelming, managing just 17 and 22 in challenging conditions at Lord’s. Since his last Test century against England at Old Trafford in July 2023, the 31-year-old has struggled, averaging a mere 24.7 across 16 matches—a stark contrast to his career Test average of over 50 at his peak.
Speaking to the media, Bailey acknowledged Labuschagne’s importance to the team while addressing the need for introspection. ‘Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team,’ Bailey stated. ‘He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects. We will continue working with him on the areas of his game we feel he needs to rediscover. We value his skill immensely and expect him to tackle this challenge positively.’
Meanwhile, Steve Smith’s absence adds another layer of uncertainty to Australia’s batting lineup. The former captain injured his finger while fielding in the slips during South Africa’s dominant chase in the WTC Final. Visibly in pain, Smith left the field and could only watch from the pavilion as South Africa clinched the title. ‘Steve needs more time for the wound to heal,’ Bailey explained. ‘We’ll give him another week’s rest and assess his functionality after that.’ Smith’s absence is a significant blow, given his impeccable record against the West Indies, where he averages over 60 in Test matches.
In a bid to rejuvenate the squad, Australia have called in Josh Inglis and young sensation Sam Konstas as replacements for Labuschagne and Smith. Inglis, known for his aggressive stroke play and wicketkeeping skills, could provide flexibility to the lineup, while Konstas, a promising talent from New South Wales, might make his Test debut—a decision that signifies the selectors’ intent to inject fresh blood into the team. The final composition of the XI and the batting order will be confirmed closer to the match day.
The first Test of the three-match series against the West Indies is set to commence on Wednesday at the iconic Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. With Australia coming off a morale-shattering loss in the WTC Final and missing two of their premier batsmen, the series promises to be a true test of character for Pat Cummins‘ men. Will the new-look batting lineup rise to the occasion, or will the West Indies capitalize on Australia’s vulnerabilities? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—cricket fans are in for a thrilling contest.