Australia vs West IndiesAustralia Cricket Newsaustralian cricket playersCricket NewsCricket Player SelectionsCricket Team SelectionsInjury UpdatesInternational MatchesLatest Cricket UpdatesMarnus LabuschagneSteve SmithTestTest CricketTest Cricket UpdatesTest Match Updates
Australia Drop Labuschagne, Smith Injured Ahead of 1st Test vs West Indies in Barbados
Konstas and Inglis Set to Step In as Key Players Miss Out
Cricket Australia confirmed on June 20 that Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped and Steve Smith ruled out for the first Test against West Indies, scheduled to begin on June 25, 2025, at Kensington Oval, Barbados. The decision marks a significant shake-up in Australia’s top order, with Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis drafted into the playing XI to fill the vacant slots.
This unexpected change comes at a crucial time, as the Australian team aims to begin their Caribbean tour with a strong start in the two-match Test series.
Labuschagne Dropped After Prolonged Dip in Form
Averages Fall Below Par in Back-to-Back Seasons
Once seen as a mainstay in Australia’s Test lineup, Marnus Labuschagne has endured a poor run with the bat in recent seasons. In 2023, he averaged 34.91, and his performance further declined to 30.93 in 2024. Notably, in four Tests played so far this year, his average has dropped to just over 16.
The final blow came during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s, where Labuschagne failed to make an impact, scoring 17 and 22 as an opener. This prompted selectors to look elsewhere for stability at the top.
📰 Check out Australia’s Test player stats over the last 12 months
Selection chairman George Bailey addressed the decision in a press release:
“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects. We continue to value his skill and expect him to work through the challenge positively.”
Steve Smith to Miss First Test Due to Finger Injury
Former Skipper Still Recovering from Dislocation in WTC Final
Adding to Australia’s concerns, Steve Smith has been ruled out of the first Test due to a dislocated finger he sustained during the WTC Final. While he has avoided surgery and has travelled with the team to the West Indies, medical advice has directed him to wear a splint for eight weeks.
Smith remains in contention for the second Test starting July 3, depending on his recovery. Bailey commented on the situation:
“Steve needs more time for the wound to heal, so we’ll give him another week’s rest and assess his functionality after that.”
Konstas and Inglis Given the Nod for Barbados Test
In place of the experienced duo, Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis will be given opportunities to further their Test careers.
-
Konstas, who had an impressive debut during the Boxing Day Test against India last year, is expected to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order.
-
Inglis, who marked his Test debut with a century in Sri Lanka, is poised to bat in the middle order in place of Smith.
While the exact batting positions are yet to be confirmed, this duo represents the fresh wave of Australian talent in red-ball cricket.
Looking Ahead: Australia’s Strategy in the Caribbean
With the absence of two seasoned batters, Australia’s strategy in the first Test may focus heavily on a flexible middle order and early stability from openers. The team’s pace attack remains intact, led by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, offering some balance against the unpredictable West Indies bowling unit.
🔗 Full Squad Details: Australia’s Test Team for West Indies Tour – 2025
