Australia Faces Selection Dilemma for WTC Final Against South Africa

The highly anticipated final is slated to commence on June 11 at Lord’s. Australian head coach Andrew McDonald acknowledged the challenges in finalizing the playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa.

As the reigning champions aim for consecutive titles, team management is grappling with crucial choices, particularly concerning the top order and all-rounder positions.

Top Order Uncertainty

While seasoned opener Usman Khawaja is confirmed for his spot, his opening partner remains undecided.

Sam Konstas and Marnus Labuschagne are potential candidates to fill the role. McDonald suggested that the in-form all-rounder Cameron Green could also be a surprising option.

Green has showcased impressive form in England’s County Championship Division 2, having scored three centuries for Gloucestershire in the last six weeks.

Although Green is currently unable to bowl as he recovers from back surgery, McDonald expressed confidence in the 25-year-old’s batting versatility.

McDonald’s Statement on Green

“He can bat anywhere in the order. He could be positioned at three, five, six, or even as an opener. He possesses the temperament and skill set, particularly the defensive technique needed higher up the order. He handles the short ball effectively and is well-rounded,” McDonald stated.

All-Rounder Inclusion Debate

The uncertainty extends beyond the top order, as Australia deliberates whether to include an all-rounder in the final XI. With Green unable to bowl, Beau Webster is in contention, having made a strong impression during Test appearances against India and Sri Lanka earlier this year. The 31-year-old could be selected if conditions at Lord’s favor an all-rounder.

Strategic Considerations

“There is a preliminary XI, but it includes multiple names for various positions. We’ve aimed to assemble a 15-man squad that provides comprehensive options. The decision to include an all-rounder will depend on the pitch and conditions, influencing the batting order,” McDonald explained.

The ultimate decision will depend on the selectors’ emphasis on having a fifth bowling option. McDonald indicated that players will receive clarity as the match approaches.

The ICC World Test Championship Final is scheduled for June 11 at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, featuring South Africa and defending champions Australia.

South Africa currently leads the WTC 2023-25 standings, with eight victories in 12 Tests.

Following a 1-1 home series draw against India and a 2-0 defeat in New Zealand, they rebounded with series wins against the West Indies (1-0), Bangladesh (2-0), Sri Lanka (2-0), and Pakistan (2-0).

Australia holds the second position, with 13 wins and four losses in 19 Tests.

Their campaign included a 2-0 win against Sri Lanka, a 3-1 triumph over India, a 2-0 series win against New Zealand, and a 1-1 draw with the West Indies. They also achieved a 3-0 whitewash against Pakistan, while the Ashes series against England concluded in a 2-2 draw.

Squads
  • Australia: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
  • South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, Kyle Verreynne, David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson.