Australia Makes Changes to Test Squad: Smith and Labuschagne Out

Australia has revealed changes to its batting lineup for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies as part of the 2027 World Test Championship, starting June 25 in Barbados. Steve Smith is unavailable due to injury, and Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped, paving the way for potential debuts for Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas. The final playing XI will be announced before the match, but key adjustments have already been made by the selectors. Smith’s finger injury, sustained during the World Test Championship Final, will keep him out of the first Test, but he may return for the second Test in Grenada, which starts on July 3. Labuschagne, who has been underperforming in Test cricket, was given the opener’s role in the Lord’s final against South Africa, but did not perform well, scoring 17 and 22. Selection Chair George Bailey announced the changes, highlighting the promising performances of the incoming players. Konstas made a mark with a composed half-century against Jasprit Bumrah during Boxing Day, and Inglis scored a century on his debut in Sri Lanka this year. Bailey commented, “We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers.” Even though he is out of the playing XI, Labuschagne is still a member of the team, with Bailey continuing to support him. The Australian squad includes: Pat Cummins (c), Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann.