Australia vs West Indies Showdown: Labuschagne Omitted, Smith Injured—Brace for a Thrilling First Test in Perth!

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Australia’s Test Squad Update for West Indies Series (Barbados, June 2025)

In a significant change ahead of the opening Test against the West Indies, the Australian cricket team has decided to exclude Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith due to performance and injury concerns. The first match of this eagerly awaited series will kick off in Barbados on June 25.

Teenage opener Sam Konstas and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis will step in to fill the void left by Labuschagne, who recently struggled with the bat during the World Test Championship final against South Africa, scoring just 17 and 22. The 30-year-old hasn’t registered a Test century since the fourth Ashes Test in 2023, prompting the selectors to reassess his position.

Selection chair George Bailey commented on Labuschagne’s form, noting, "When Marnus is at his best, he is a crucial asset for the team. We recognize that his output hasn’t met expectations recently." He emphasized ongoing support for Labuschagne as they aim to help him regain his form.

As for Steve Smith, he suffered a dislocated little finger during the third day of the Test final at Lord’s. While he has avoided surgery, he will be required to wear a splint for up to eight weeks, putting his participation in the second Test in Grenada in July in question. Bailey stated, "Steve needs additional recovery time. We’ll monitor his progress closely."

Bailey expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity for Konstas and Inglis, saying, "We are eager to see how they perform as they advance their Test careers." He highlighted Inglis’s impressive debut in Sri Lanka, where he demonstrated great potential against tough competition.


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