Is Labuschagne Ready to Open? Green & Hazlewood in Australia’s WTC Final XI
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Synopsis
Australia gears up for the World Test Championship final against South Africa with a surprising line-up. Captain Pat Cummins has made bold choices, including making Marnus Labuschagne the opener and recalling Cameron Green after injury. Will these decisions pay off at Lord's? Discover the dynamics of the team as they prepare for this crucial match.
Key Takeaways
- Marnus Labuschagne opens for Australia in the WTC final.
- Cameron Green returns after injury as a specialist batter.
- Josh Hazlewood edges out Scott Boland for a spot in the pace attack.
- Australia's squad blends youth and experience.
- The match will be held at Lord's, a historic venue.
London, June 10 (NationPress) Australia has announced its playing XI just before the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa, which is set to commence on Wednesday at Lord's.
Captain Pat Cummins has decided to have Marnus Labuschagne open the innings with Usman Khawaja, hoping that the 30-year-old can serve as a long-term replacement for David Warner’s position that has seen numerous changes.
Labuschagne, who has yet to open in Test cricket, holds just one Test century since late 2022 and did not leave a mark in his two matches for County team Glamorgan earlier this month.
After considerable discussion, seamer Josh Hazlewood has beaten out Scott Boland to join left-armer Mitchell Starc and Cummins in the pace lineup.
Hazlewood has not participated in a red-ball match since his appearance in the third Test against India last December, while Boland made a strong case for his inclusion with a 10-wicket match haul in the series finale in Sydney. Hazlewood recently celebrated an IPL victory with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and just arrived in London on June 4.
All-rounder Beau Webster has secured a position in the playing XI alongside Cameron Green, who is set to make his first Test appearance since October 2024. Green, who underwent back surgery last October due to a stress fracture, is now returning as a specialist batter and enters the WTC final following three centuries during his County stint with Gloucestershire.
Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
Point of View
Australia's selection for the WTC final demonstrates a mix of innovation and reliance on experienced players. The inclusion of Labuschagne and the return of Green indicate a strategy that balances youth and experience, reflecting the nation's commitment to achieving excellence in cricket.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Marnus Labuschagne been chosen to open?
Marnus Labuschagne has been chosen to open in hopes of providing stability at the top of the order, especially as Australia seeks a long-term solution following David Warner's exit.
What is Cameron Green's current form?
Cameron Green is returning from injury and has shown promising form with three centuries during his County stint, positioning him as a vital player in the upcoming match.
Who else is included in Australia's playing XI?
The playing XI includes Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, and a strong bowling attack featuring Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.
