Patiala, June 11, (Sports Desk)
Australia captain Pat Cummins disclosed his team’s playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s on Tuesday, confirming the lineup predicted by former captain Ricky Ponting on The ICC Review last month. Meanwhile, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma also revealed the Proteas XI for the decisive match.
Marnus Labuschagne, a former No.1-ranked Test batter, will open alongside Usman Khawaja, while Josh Hazlewood edged out Scott Boland to join left-armer Mitchell Starc and Cummins in the pace attack. All-rounder Cameron Green returns for his first Test since back surgery, and Beau Webster retains his place, offering medium-pace and spin support to the bowlers.
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Cummins explained the decision to promote Labuschagne, saying, “Moving Marnus up is just one spot, similar to batting at three. He’s experienced, has performed well at Lord’s and in England. Opening can be challenging, but it’s also a prime scoring opportunity before the Dukes ball swings much. Keeping it in check could make a difference.” Teenager Sam Konstas, however, misses out, though Cummins remains optimistic, noting, “He’s young with a long career ahead. Even without playing, there are learning opportunities for him.”
On excluding Boland in favor of Hazlewood, Cummins said, “Scott’s done nothing wrong; it’s just unfortunate. He’s in his mid-30s, but this isn’t the end. With a strong pace bowling squad, we aim to extend careers for a few more years, given the Tests ahead.”
The stage is set for an epic final between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s, starting June 11, 2025.
Australia XI: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. Marnus Labuschagne, 3. Cameron Green, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Beau Webster, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood
