Australia have retained under-pressure batter Marnus Labuschagne while adding Cooper Connolly, Michael Neser and Matthew Kuhnemann to the 16-man Test squad.
SYDNEY: Australia have announced a 16-member squad for their three-Test series against South Africa, with under-pressure batter Marnus Labuschagne retaining his place despite a prolonged run of poor form.
Labuschagne has come under increasing scrutiny following a series of disappointing performances. Since July 2023, he has averaged just 24.69 across 43 Test innings without scoring a century, raising questions over his position in Australia’s batting lineup.
The 31-year-old’s recent form has done little to ease those concerns. He scored 1, 31 and 4 in three innings against Bangladesh, further increasing pressure on the experienced batter.
Chief selector George Bailey acknowledged that Australia expect greater returns from Labuschagne but said the selectors remain confident in his ability.
His omission from Australia’s ODI squad could provide an opportunity to focus solely on red-ball cricket before the South Africa series. The selectors will hope additional preparation allows him to rediscover the form that previously established him as a key member of Australia’s Test side.
The squad also features promising all-rounder Cooper Connolly, while Michael Neser and Matthew Kuhnemann return to the Test setup.
Matt Renshaw has retained his place and could be in contention to open the batting alongside Travis Head, adding another selection question ahead of the series.
Australia will face South Africa in three Tests, beginning in Durban on Oct. 9. The second Test will be played in Gqeberha from Oct. 18, followed by the third Test in Johannesburg from Oct. 27.
With Labuschagne under pressure and several players competing for places, Australia will enter the series with a number of selection decisions still to be settled.
Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Series schedule:
First Test: Oct. 9-13, Durban
Second Test: Oct. 18-22, Gqeberha
Third Test: Oct. 27-31, Johannesburg
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