Will Konstas & Inglis Shine as Marnus is Dropped for Windies Test?
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Synopsis
In a significant shake-up for the upcoming first Test against the West Indies, Australia has named a new batting lineup featuring Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis. With Steve Smith injured and Marnus Labuschagne dropped, can this fresh duo rise to the occasion and secure a vital win for Australia?
Key Takeaways
- Australia has introduced new players for the first Test against the West Indies.
- Steve Smith is out due to injury, while Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped.
- Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis are expected to make a significant impact.
- Selectors are focusing on future potential and performance.
- The final batting order will be decided before the match.
Melbourne, June 20 (NationPress) Opener Sam Konstas and reserve wicketkeeper Josh Inglis are set to feature in the first Test against the West Indies as Australia unveils a fresh batting lineup for the match in Barbados next week. This change comes as Steve Smith is sidelined due to injury and Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped after a string of poor performances.
Smith will miss the opening match of the three-Test series due to a finger injury he sustained during the World Test Championship against South Africa. However, Cricket Australia has indicated that he is still in contention for the second match.
Smith has avoided surgery but must keep his right finger in a splint for up to eight weeks following a compound dislocation.
Labuschagne has been left out after his performances in the World Test Championship final, where he struggled with scores of 17 and 22.
Chair of Selectors George Bailey announced that Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas will replace Smith and Labuschagne in the starting XI. “Steve needs more time to heal, so we’ll give him another week’s rest. We’re excited to see Josh and Sam get this chance to advance their Test careers,” Bailey stated.
The newcomers have shown promise in their early matches. Konstas notably impressed by scoring a half-century against world No.1 Test bowler Jasprit Bumrah, while Inglis made a century on his Test debut in Sri Lanka earlier this year.
“In his only Test opportunity so far, Josh was exceptional in Sri Lanka, demonstrating great intent. Marnus has the potential to be a key player for us, and we will continue to work with him to regain his form,” Bailey added.
The batting order and final XI will be finalized closer to the start of the match.
Australia Test 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.
Point of View
I recognize the gravity of these changes for the Australian team. While the absence of key players like Steve Smith is concerning, the introduction of fresh talent like Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis could rejuvenate the squad. The selectors' decisions reflect a commitment to performance and adaptability, which are essential in international cricket. We remain optimistic about the team's prospects against the West Indies.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Steve Smith ruled out of the first Test?
Steve Smith is sidelined due to a finger injury sustained during the World Test Championship.
Who are the new players in the Australian squad?
Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis are the new additions to the Australian squad for the first Test.
What are the expectations from Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis?
Both players are expected to perform well and utilize this opportunity to advance their Test careers.
How did Marnus Labuschagne perform prior to his omission?
Marnus Labuschagne struggled in the recent World Test Championship final, scoring only 17 and 22.
When will the final XI be confirmed?
The final XI will be confirmed closer to the match day.
