Australia drop Labuschagne for first West Indies Test

Steve Smith is also out with a broken wrist, and Australia have dropped Marnus Labuschagne for their opening test against the West Indies.

Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis take Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis’ place for the series’ opening in Barbados, which will begin on June 25.

In their final match of the World Test Championship, Australia lost to South Africa last week, but Labuschagne finished with 17 and 22 points, continuing his lean start.

Since the fourth Ashes Test of 2023, the 30-year-old has not scored a Test hundred.

“Marnus can play a really significant role in this team,” said the coach. Selection chair George Bailey, in his opinion, “he understands that his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects.”

We will continue to collaborate with him on the areas that require rediscovering. We continue to value his ability and anticipate that he will overcome the challenge successfully.

Smith did this on day three of the Lord’s final, where he suffered a dislocated right finger.

He must wear a splint for up to eight weeks despite having avoided surgery and traveling to the Caribbean. He may also be able to play in Grenada’s second Test in July.

We’ll give Steve another week’s rest and assess his functionality afterward, Bailey said. “Steve needs more time for the wound to heal.

Josh and Sam have the option of replacing Steve and Marnus, according to the company. We look forward to seeing them advance their aspiring Test careers.