Marnus Labuschagne is set to open the batting for Australia in the highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord's. This significant move sees Labuschagne promoted from his usual number three position, with Cameron Green returning to the team to fill that spot. The match starts on Wednesday and is sure to be a thrilling contest.
Labuschagne's promotion means he becomes Usman Khawaja's fifth opening partner since David Warner's retirement earlier in 2024. This highlights the challenges Australia has faced in finding a settled opening pair.
Beau Webster retains his place in the middle order at number six, while Josh Hazlewood has been selected ahead of Scott Boland in the pace attack. South Africa, meanwhile, have opted for Lungi Ngidi over Dane Paterson, and Kagiso Rabada returns after serving a ban.
Teams Announced for WTC Final
Here are the confirmed lineups for both teams:
- Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.
- South Africa XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
Australia aims to defend their title, which they won two years ago by defeating India at The Oval. The commentary panel for the Ultimate Test features big names like Ian Bishop, Nasser Hussain, and Ian Smith, along with former cricketers Matthew Hayden, Mel Jones, Graeme Smith, Shaun Pollock, Ravi Shastri, Stuart Broad, Kevin Pietersen, and Dinesh Karthik.
Expert Commentary Anticipates a Thrilling Final
Nasser Hussain, a former England captain, expressed his excitement for the final, stating, "Lord’s, the Home of Cricket, hosting the World Test Championship Final. It does not get any better for a lover of the game. Both South Africa and Australia have been outstanding across this cycle, and I am expecting a high-quality contest." He also highlighted the challenges for both bat and ball and anticipates the pressure of the occasion will reveal character.
The stage is set for an epic battle between South Africa and Australia in this prestigious Test match at Lord's. Cricket fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the action to unfold.