Cricket Kitchen

Big Changes in Australia Squad: Star Batter Dropped, Injury Update on Smith

June 20, 2025

 

Kathmandu – After their defeat in the WTC Final, the Australian team is now gearing up for their West Indies tour, where a three-match Test series will begin from June 25. The first Test will be played in Barbados, marking the start of the 2027 World Test Championship cycle for both teams.

The Australian squad will see some notable changes in this series. Steve Smith has been ruled out due to injury, while Marnus Labuschagne, who has been struggling with poor form, has been dropped. Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas have been included in the squad.

Smith suffered a finger injury during the WTC Final, ruling him out of the first Test. However, there is hope that he might return for the second Test, which starts on July 3 in Grenada.

Labuschagne, after two years of underwhelming Test performances, was sent to open in the WTC Final at Lord’s, but he failed to make an impact, scoring only 17 and 22. South Africa eventually defeated Australia in that final.

Stielwagen to Take Time Recovering

Chairman of Selectors George Bailey confirmed the changes on Friday morning. He said, “Steve needs more time for his injury to heal, so we’ve decided to give him another week’s rest. After that, we’ll assess his fitness. In the meantime, we’ve brought in Josh and Sam to replace Steve and Marnus. We’re excited to give them the opportunity to further their Test careers.”