Usman Khawaja remains in Australia’s plans for the Ashes later this year, even as Marnus Labuschagne’s position becomes less stable. Meanwhile, Sam Konstas emerges as a strong contender for a Test recall during the tour of the West Indies. These developments follow Australia’s defeat in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.
Steven Smith’s finger injury could offer Labuschagne a temporary reprieve, his place saved by familiarity in the WTC cycle. However, selectors are poised to decide in the coming days whether additional batting strength is needed in the squad, as details on Smith’s injury prognosis come through. The chances of 19-year-old Konstas making a return at the top of the order are growing.
“There was a big discussion leading into this Test match,” explained head coach Andrew McDonald. “The need to settle that opening combination was clear. We’ve been playing musical chairs, so perhaps it’s time for some stability.”
Labuschagne, usually in the middle order, opened alongside Khawaja for the first time in Test cricket at Lord’s. Scores of 17 and 22 left him with a WTC cycle average of 27.82. McDonald remains optimistic about his potential, saying, “He’s a big part of the future. Anyone that averages 45 or 46 in Test cricket at that age is crucial. We’ve older players nearing the end and younger ones stepping up.”
McDonald admits Labuschagne would feel “disappointed with the returns,” but added, “Most players get dropped at some point. He’s had a good week of preparation. He’s a hard worker. Now it’s about the returns.”
Despite scoring 232 against Sri Lanka three Tests back, Khawaja’s twin dismissals to Kagiso Rabada at Lord’s have prompted questions about his play against pace. Yet, McDonald remains supportive: “He’s on contract, he’s an important player. He stabilises the team when he’s at his best.”
With an eye on Khawaja’s preparation, McDonald continued, “He’s still training well, hitting runs in domestic cricket. It’s about his inner drive and preparation.”
As Australia assesses its strategies for upcoming contests, Konstas’ name increasingly surfaces, promising an intriguing blend of seasoned stability and youthful potential in the batting order.
