Australian batter Sam Konstas has been left out of the starting XI for the World Test Championship final at Lord’s, with captain Pat Cummins confirming Marnus Labuschagne will open alongside Usman Khawaja, and Josh Hazlewood returns to the bowling attack.
Konstas, who impressed fans with his aggressive batting against India last summer, was in contention for an opening role but lost out to Labuschagne, despite the latter’s recent poor form.
“Cam Green, the last few weeks he’s had, coming back in great form, we thought he deserved a spot somewhere in the batting line-up,” Cummins said.
“With Marnus moving, we thought it’s one spot up, it’s not too different to batting three. He’s done well here in England in the past.”
Konstas had been dropped during Australia’s Sri Lanka tour and returned to Sheffield Shield cricket, where he posted some solid scores. However, the selectors ultimately chose continuity with Labuschagne, despite widespread criticism over his declining performance.
Labuschagne, who averaged just 25.36 with the bat over the summer, remains under pressure, while Konstas will again remain on the sidelines for the WTC decider.
Australia’s final XI: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
