Marnus Labuschagne’s recent struggles with the bat have sparked debate over his place in Australia’s Test side for the first time since 2019. Former captain Aaron Finch has voiced concerns about Labuschagne’s inability to dominate opposition bowlers, which has left selectors pondering whether to choose him or rookie Sam Konstas for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final.
The WTC final presents a critical juncture: the seasoned Labuschagne, who boasts 11 Test centuries, faces off against the promising but inexperienced Konstas. Labuschagne might be asked to open, potentially offering him one more chance to solidify his Test career. However, with an average of 28.33 this WTC cycle, a notable drop from his prolific form between 2019 and 2022, his position is undeniably at risk. Despite this, Labuschagne has delivered in crucial matches, including a century at Old Trafford in 2023 and a crucial 90 in Christchurch.
Yet, his approach, particularly under pressure, raises eyebrows. At times, Labuschagne’s scoring has stalled, especially notable against top-tier bowlers like India’s Jasprit Bumrah. His current strike rate has dipped to 46.40 compared to his career average of 51.94. Finch, speaking with ESPNcricinfo, expressed his worries: “It’s a difficult one because Marnus hasn’t scored the runs at No. 3 and the way that he’s been playing has probably been the concern for me… He is not putting any pressure back on the opposition at all.”
Finch continued, “You can’t just allow the best bowlers in the world to bowl with a new ball at you over and over without forcing their hand a little bit.” This tactical caution contrasts with the assertive play often required at this level, where counterattacking can unsettle bowlers and shift momentum.
Selectors once opted for Konstas over Nathan McSweeney against India because of his aggressive style akin to David Warner’s, evident in his dynamic 60 off 65 balls at the MCG. This willingness to attack could be a decisive criterion for the WTC final selection. There’s also concern that a top order featuring Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, and Cameron Green might lack the necessary dynamism.
Labuschagne’s counterpoint is his significant experience in English conditions, a potential asset in the upcoming final. Moreover, Australia faces additional selection headaches with the return of Cameron Green and Beau Webster’s impressive Test debut, compounded by Josh Inglis’s century in his first Test match.
The decision may ultimately depend on whether selectors value Labuschagne’s seasoned experience over the fresh vibrancy that Konstas could bring to the table.
