Marnus Labuschagne Retained in Australia Test Squad Despite Poor Form

Marnus Labuschagne has been retained in Australia’s 16-man Test squad for the three-match series against South Africa, despite a long run of poor form.

Labuschagne has averaged only 24.69 across his last 43 Test innings. He also struggled in Australia’s recent series against Bangladesh, scoring 1, 31 and 4.

The batter has, however, been dropped from Australia’s ODI squad for the upcoming tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa. His Test retention shows the selectors still have faith in his red-ball ability.

Young allrounder Cooper Connolly has earned a place in the Test squad, while Michael Neser and spinner Matthew Kuhnemann have also been included.

Australia will be led by Pat Cummins in the three-Test series, which will be important for the World Test Championship standings.

The first Test will be played in Durban from October 9 to 13, followed by the second Test in Gqeberha from October 18 to 22.

The series will end in Cape Town, where the third Test is scheduled from October 27 to 31.

Kuhnemann’s inclusion also gives Australia extra spin depth. Gqeberha could be an important venue for the spinner, with spinners taking more wickets than pacers there in recent matches.

Labuschagne will now have a chance to answer his critics in the longer format. Australia’s selectors will hope their continued backing can help him return to his best form.

Australia Squad vs South Africa

Pat Cummins (Captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.