In a stunning tactical move ahead of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, Australia captain Pat Cummins has unveiled a reshuffled playing XI, headlined by Marnus Labuschagne’s shift to opener and a tough call to sideline pace bowler Scott Boland in favor of Josh Hazlewood. This bold strategy sets the tone for what promises to be an electrifying clash at the ‘Home of Cricket,’ where Australia aims to cement their dominance in Test cricket.
Cummins confirmed that Labuschagne, traditionally a rock at No. 3, will partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order, displacing the promising 19-year-old Sam Konstas. Explaining the move, Cummins emphasized Labuschagne’s adaptability and proven record in English conditions. ‘Marnus moving up is just one spot, really. It’s not a massive shift from batting at three,’ Cummins said. ‘He’s got the experience, has performed brilliantly at Lord’s, and thrives in England—where he’s averaged over 50 in Tests. It’s a role we believe suits him perfectly.’
Opening with the Dukes ball under English skies is no easy task, with early swing and seam movement often testing the mettle of even the most seasoned batsmen. Yet, Cummins sees an opportunity. ‘Opening can be challenging, no doubt, but it can also be the best time to bat before the ball starts swinging excessively. There’s a chance to set the tone and score big,’ he noted, hinting at Labuschagne’s ability to capitalize on such conditions with his watertight technique.
The decision to overlook Konstas, who has turned heads with his composure in early appearances, reflects Cummins’ long-term vision for the teenager. ‘Sam is incredibly young, and he’s got a bright future. Not playing in this final doesn’t diminish his potential. We see this as a learning curve for him—watching from the sidelines can be just as valuable,’ Cummins explained, showcasing his knack for balancing immediate results with player development.
Perhaps the tougher call came in Australia’s formidable pace department. Despite Scott Boland’s impeccable record in England—including a memorable 6 for 7 at the MCG against England in the 2021-22 Ashes—Josh Hazlewood was preferred to complete the trio alongside Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Acknowledging Boland’s misfortune, Cummins was quick to offer reassurance. ‘Scott has done nothing wrong. He’s been exceptional, and this is purely a strategic call. The message to him is clear: this isn’t the end. With plenty of Test cricket ahead, we’re also rotating our quicks to manage workloads and extend careers,’ Cummins stated, underlining the depth in Australia’s bowling ranks.
The rest of the XI features the return of Cameron Green, who slots back into the side after recovering from back surgery, adding dynamism with bat and ball. Beau Webster retains his place as the versatile all-rounder, offering both seam and spin options, while stalwarts like Steve Smith, Travis Head, wicketkeeper Alex Carey, and spinner Nathan Lyon round out a balanced lineup. This combination, according to Cummins, strikes the perfect equilibrium between experience and adaptability for the swinging conditions expected at Lord’s.
As the cricketing world gears up for the WTC Final 2025, Cummins’ audacious selections have sparked debates among fans and pundits alike. Will Labuschagne’s transition to opener pay dividends? Can Hazlewood justify his selection over the ever-reliable Boland? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Australia is leaving no stone unturned in their quest for Test supremacy. Stay tuned as we bring you every twist and turn from Lord’s, where history awaits.