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On Tuesday, May 13, Cricket Australia (CA) announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final, scheduled to be played from June 11 to 15 at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London against South Africa. However, the summit clash is just a few days away, the two teams’ players have been put under jeopardy seeing their participation in the IPL 2025 also extend after the season will resume after a week’s haitus from May 17.
While several Australian players are likely to travel to India to complete their stint with their respective franchises, including the likes of Pat Cummins and Travis Head, a few other have reportedly opted out, seeing them prepare in time for the upcoming WTC final. Amidst this, with CA still pondering on David Warner’s suitable replacement to open alongside Usman Khawaja, reports have hinted that it could be Marnus Labuschagne.
I think Marnus could open the batting: George Bailey hints at Usman Khawaja’s opening pair
It is to be noted that Australia has been testing a few players to open the batting, alongside veteran Usman Khawaja. While Khawaja has remained a constant, he has paired with Travis Head, Sam Konstas, Nathan McSweeney, and Steve Smith, all of whom have been named in the 15-member squad. Although, Smith came up to be an obivious pick to open after Warner's departure, but he shifted to middle-order.
When inquired of Usman Khawaja’s opening pair for the highly-anticipated match, CA’s Chairman of Selectors, George Bailey has hinted on Marnus to be that one. He asserted that Marnus has never opened the batting for Australia in Tests, but added, “I think Marnus could open the batting. A number of guys could open the batting, but certainly that’s not to say that they will.”
Australia's 15-member squad for WTC 2025 Final vs South Africa
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett
