Ahead of the first Test of the 2027 World Test Championship series against the West Indies, commencing June 25 in Barbados, Australia is restructuring its batting order. Steve Smith’s finger injury and Marnus Labuschagne’s recent form slump have led to their omission, with Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas poised to make their Test debuts. The final team selection will be revealed before the toss, but the selectors have already made strategic changes. Smith, who was injured in the World Test Championship Final, will not be available for the opening Test, although a comeback in the second Test in Grenada, from July 3, is possible. Labuschagne, who has been struggling in recent Test matches, was given the opportunity to open in the Lord’s final against South Africa but failed to capitalize, scoring 17 and 22. George Bailey, the Selection Chair, announced these changes, acknowledging the impressive performances of the new players. Konstas previously showcased his talent with a composed half-century against Jasprit Bumrah during Boxing Day, while Inglis scored a century on his debut in Sri Lanka this year. Bailey stated, “We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers.” Despite being dropped from the playing XI, Labuschagne remains in the squad, with Bailey expressing his ongoing support. The Australian squad features: Pat Cummins (c), Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann.
