Sam Konstas will receive a big punt in Marnus Labuschagne as a opener in Australia WTC Final 2025

Australia is reportedly set to make a bold call at the top of the order for next month’s World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa, with Marnus Labuschagne expected to open alongside Usman Khawaja at Lord’s on June 11.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, selectors are leaning towards Labuschagne over 19-year-old sensation Sam Konstas, who is likely to be squeezed out of the XI to accommodate all-rounder Cameron Green’s return from injury.

Labuschagne has never opened in Tests

Labuschagne, who has never opened in Tests, was long considered a candidate to fill the void left by David Warner’s retirement in January. He impressed as an opener for Glamorgan last year, scoring a classy 111 against Middlesex in the County Championship.

The Queenslander, currently averaging 28.33 in this WTC cycle, has faced scrutiny over form, but selectors continue to back his presence. He will tune up with two County matches in May before featuring to help Australia retain the WTC crown.

If confirmed, Labuschagne would become Khawaja’s fifth opening partner since Warner, following stints by Steve Smith, Nathan McSweeney, Konstas and Travis Head. This really shows that Australia haven’t really been able to fill Warner’s big shoes.

Green’s return further complicates selection. The all-rounder missed the home summer with a back issue but is a near-lock when fit. Konstas, who turned heads with a Boxing Day fifty against India, has since gone 11 first-class innings without a century.

Australia’s Probable XI for WTC Final vs SA

• Usman Khawaja
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steve Smith
• Cameron Green
• Travis Head
• Mitchell Marsh/Beau Webster
• Alex Carey
• Pat Cummins
• Mitchell Starc
• Josh Hazlewood
• Nathan Lyon