Australia will release a reworked batting line-up when they meet the West Indies in the first Test of the 2027 World Test Championship series, beginning June 25 in Barbados. With injury-ridden Steve Smith out of contention and Marnus Labuschagne axed after a long period of losing form, the Aussies are looking to debut new faces in Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas.
Steve Smith Injured
The final lineup and full playing XI will be announced before the toss, but the selectors have already proceeded to spice things up. Smith, who hurt his finger during the World Test Championship Final, is still out of the series opener, though there’s hope he will return for the second Test in Grenada, from July 3.
Marnus Labuschagne Dropped
Labuschagne, who had struggled through the last couple of years in Test cricket, was handed the opener’s role for the Lord’s final against South Africa but couldn’t make a difference, scoring 17 and 22 in the loss.
Selection Chair George Bailey made the announcements publicly on Friday morning, complimenting the newcomers’ performances. Konstas already gained attention with a calm half-century against Jasprit Bumrah during Boxing Day in the previous year, while Inglis stunned with a debut century in Sri Lanka this year.
“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 after losing his position in the playing XI, Labuschagne is still a member of the team, with Bailey continuing to support the right-hander as he strives to regain form.
Australia Squad
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.
