Australia have unveiled their squad for the opening Test of the three-match series in the Caribbean, scheduled to begin June 25 in Bridgetown, Barbados. Heading into the first Test, Australia have made two significant changes to their squad. Marnus Labuschagne has been omitted from the first Test after a disappointing run of form in the World Test Championship final, while veteran batter Steve Smith has been ruled out due to an injury. Smith had suffered a compound finger dislocation while fielding during the WTC final at Lord’s. Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis have been added to the side.
"Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn't been at the level we, or he, expects," said selection chair George Bailey.
"We will continue working with him on the areas of his game we feel he needs to rediscover. We continue to value his skill and expect him to work through the challenge positively."
“Steve needs more time for the wound to heal so we'll give him another week's rest and assess his functionality after that," Bailey said.
"We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers.
Australia Test squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann