Australia keep faith in Labuschagne, but line up potential No.3 replacements for South Africa Tests

🏏 Aus Keep Faith in Labuschagne, But Line Up Backups for SA Tests

Aussies have named Marnus Labuschagne in their 16-man squad for the upcoming Test series vs South Africa, but with two ready-made replacements waiting in the wings—Cooper Connolly and Josh Inglis.

The Labuschagne Situation

Let's be honest, Marnus's form has been worrying. His last Test century came way back in the 2023 Ashes in Manchester. Against Bangladesh recently, he chipped in with 4, 1, and 31—definitely not the kind of returns you want from your No.3.

But selector George Bailey is standing by him: "We're confident he can still make a positive contribution." Bailey clarified that Marnus was actually dropped from the ODI squads to focus on his red-ball prep, so this is more about managing his workload than burying him.

Still, Bailey was blunt: "We'd like more runs from Marnus. That's clear."

The Backup Plan

Connolly's the exciting one here—800 first-class runs off 13 innings (no ton yet) and he's been in solid ODI form with a century vs Bangladesh in June. Bailey trusts both him and Inglis to bat up top.

Inglis, the WK, hasn't played a Test this year (last appearance was Adelaide vs England last Dec), but his batting credentials clearly won Bailey over.

Squad Glimpse

Matt Renshaw & Travis Head look set to open. Alongside Connolly, only Neser and Kuhnemann are new additions—rest of the 13 are the same Bangladesh bunch. Cummins, Smith, Lyon, Starc, Hazlewood all in.

What's Coming

SA host us for 3 ODIs first, then 3 Tests from Oct 9 (Durban), 18 & 27 (Gqeberha). Big series ahead—Marnus's next few innings will tell us a lot.

Who's your pick to hold the No.3 spot? 🤔

Source: Wisden

Source: Wisden