Since David Warner stepped away from Test cricket in January 2024, Australia’s search for a stable opening partner for Usman Khawaja has been ongoing. In 11 matches since Warner’s departure, Khawaja has seen four different partners take the opening spot. As the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa approaches on 11 June at Lord’s, speculation abounds on whether a fifth player will step up to the crease alongside Khawaja.
Sam Konstas is in line to make a return after his brief stint against India, but Australia’s selectors may opt for a more experimental choice. Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis are both in contention, despite Labuschagne averaging only 28.33 in the current WTC cycle, and Inglis lacking experience as an opener in red-ball cricket.
George Bailey, Australia’s national selector, explained, “I think [Josh] could do it, but I’ve said the same about Marnus. I do think it’s a role that more people could do. I know there is a prevailing thought it is a specialised role.” Bailey’s comments suggest a willingness to buck traditional thinking regarding specialist roles, noting that England’s conditions might suit Josh, while others might fit into the middle order where they’ve found success before.
Labuschagne, who has opened 15 times in first-class matches, scored a century for Glamorgan against Middlesex last year, but has not taken on the role since 2016 apart from that match. Inglis made an impressive century on his Test debut in Sri Lanka but has not opened in first-class games.
Australia’s quest for an opener since Warner’s exit has been marked by experimentation. Steven Smith initially filled the position to allow Cameron Green to bat higher up the order. Smith’s attempt lasted four Tests but included a composed 91 not out at the Gabba. Later, Nathan McSweeney was given a chance, making his debut against India, after having opened once for Australia A.
In a bid for stability, Travis Head took on the opening role during the Sri Lanka tour after proving pivotal in India in 2023. Konstas, whose aggressive display against Jasprit Bumrah at the MCG last Boxing Day turned heads, was consequently sidelined after just two matches.
“We have been very strong on trying to delineate between the World Test Championship final, and separate the West Indies tour, which will be slightly different,” Bailey stated. His remark suggests a strategy customised for each series, with an eye on adapting and learning as the team evolves.
With the WTC final looming, the selectors face tough decisions. If a new opener finds success against South Africa, it will add complexity to the selection strategy for the tour of the West Indies.
As Australia navigates these selection challenges, the outcome of their decisions could significantly influence their performance in this crucial period.
