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Smith Ruled Out, Konstas In For Marnus; Australia To Make Big Changes For 1st Test Vs WI

Debashis Sarangi

Labuschagne and Smith won't play AUS vs WI 1st Test [Source: AP]Labuschagne and Smith won't play AUS vs WI 1st Test [Source: AP]

In a significant development, Australia are set to drop Marnus Labuschagne from their playing XI for the first Test against West Indies. Led by Pat Cummins, the Aussies will take on the West Indies in a three-Test series starting on the 25th of June. 

Labuschagne To Be Dropped, Injured Smith To Miss WI Series Opener

Marnus Labuschagne was promoted to open the batting in the World Test Championship final. However, the experienced cricketer disappointed the Australian think tank, failing to convert his starts into significant scores. Overall, he struck 39 runs across two outings at an ordinary average of 19.5. 

As confirmed by Cricket.com.au, the ace batter will make way for dynamic opener Sam Konstas, with Australia aiming to kickstart the fourth WTC cycle on a positive note. Despite playing a few quick-fire cameos, 19-year-old Konstas has yet to cement his place in the Australian Test side. 

Thus, the West Indies tour gives him a golden opportunity to prove his mettle and secure his position in the Test setup. 

On the other hand, legendary batter Steve Smith will also miss the first Test after dislocating his finger while fielding in the WTC final against South Africa. As confirmed by Cricket Australia's chairman of selectors, George Bailey, Smith will be replaced by swashbuckling keeper-batter Josh Inglis. 

"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," Bailey was quoted as saying by Cricket.com.au.

The much-awaited Test series between Australia and West Indies begins on June 25, with the iconic Kensington Oval in Barbados hosting the inaugural encounter. The second Test will be played in Grenada before the caravan shifts to Kingston for the decider. 

Australia's squad for WI Tests: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster