Australia Makes Changes: Labuschagne Dropped, Smith Out with Injury

Australia Drop Labuschagne, Lose Smith to Injury for West Indies Test Opener Konstas and Inglis named as replacements for Barbados Test starting June 25 Australia will field a significantly reshaped batting line-up for the first Test against West Indies in Barbados after Marnus Labuschagne was dropped and Steven Smith ruled out with a finger injury. Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas have been named as their replacements in the 14-member squad. 🔁 Key Changes: Out: 🧤 Steven Smith (injured – dislocated finger) 🏏 Marnus Labuschagne (dropped due to prolonged lean patch) In: 🧢 Josh Inglis – scored a debut century in Galle earlier this year 🧢 Sam Konstas – returns for his 3rd Test after impressing on debut vs India 📉 Labuschagne Dropped After Prolonged Slump Labuschagne’s axe follows a two-year run of inconsistent Test returns, despite a final opportunity granted in the WTC final, where he managed just 17 and 22 as an opener. Selectors have finally pulled the plug. George Bailey (Chair of Selectors): "Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team… but he understands his output hasn’t met expectations. We expect him to work through it positively." 🏥 Smith's Injury Timeline Smith dislocated his right little finger while attempting a catch at Lord's. Though he avoided surgery, the splint and soft tissue damage will sideline him for at least another week. He may return later in the series. 🔍 Who Are the Replacements? Josh Inglis (Likely No. 5/6) Wicketkeeper-batter with strong attacking instincts Made century on debut in Sri Lanka Seen as an “aggressive, pressure-building” option Sam Konstas (Likely Opener) Scored 60 on debut against India at the MCG Has shown calm temperament and technique Expected to open with Usman Khawaja Probable XI for First Test (Barbados) Usman Khawaja Sam Konstas Travis Head Cameron Green Josh Inglis (wk) Alex Carey Pat Cummins (c) Mitchell Starc Nathan Lyon Matt Kuhnemann / Josh Hazlewood Scott Boland / Hazlewood In case of a spin-friendly pitch, Kuhnemann may partner Lyon. Otherwise, Hazlewood likely returns for pace. 🗓️ Looking Ahead The first Test starts June 25 in Barbados Australia are in a mini-transition phase with Smith injured, Warner retired, and Labuschagne out Opportunity now knocks for Konstas and Inglis to stamp their place ahead of a packed 2025 Test calendar