Australia Announces Squad for West Indies Test Series: Smith Out, Labuschagne Dropped

Australia will unveil a revamped batting order for the first Test of the 2027 World Test Championship series against the West Indies, commencing June 25 in Barbados. Steve Smith, sidelined due to a finger injury, and Marnus Labuschagne, axed after a period of inconsistent form, will be replaced by Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas, who are set to debut. The final playing XI will be disclosed before the toss, but the selectors have already made impactful changes. Smith’s injury, sustained during the World Test Championship Final, will keep him out of the series opener, although a return for the second Test in Grenada, starting July 3, is anticipated. Labuschagne, struggling in Test cricket recently, was given the opening slot in the Lord’s final against South Africa, but failed to make a significant impact, scoring 17 and 22. Selection Chair George Bailey announced the changes, praising the performances of the newcomers. Konstas impressed with a composed half-century against Jasprit Bumrah during Boxing Day the previous year, while Inglis scored a debut century in Sri Lanka this year. Bailey stated, “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.” Despite losing his place in the playing XI, Labuschagne remains in the squad, with Bailey expressing continued support for the right-hander as he seeks to regain form. 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.