Ponting Unveils Predicted Australia XI for WTC Final

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has shared his anticipated playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final. Australia is set to clash with South Africa at Lord’s from June 11 to 15.

Earlier in the month, Cricket Australia revealed a formidable 15-member squad for the significant match. Head coach Andrew McDonald has mentioned that the ultimate team selections will be determined once the squad convenes in London.

While the majority of Australia’s XI seems defined, uncertainties linger regarding the opening partner for Usman Khawaja, the recent performance of Marnus Labuschagne, the optimal batting position for Cameron Green, and the choice between Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland in the pace attack.

Ponting addressed these key questions on a recent episode of The ICC Review, providing his detailed forecast for Australia’s lineup.

“I have a feeling that Marnus Labuschagne might be elevated in the batting order to open with Khawaja,” Ponting stated.

“I anticipate Green batting at three, followed by Steve Smith at four.

“Then it’s Travis Head at five, Beau Webster at six, Carey at seven, Cummins at eight, Starc at nine, and Lyon at ten.

“The ongoing debate for the past few years revolves around Hazlewood versus Boland. It poses a challenging selection each time because Boland consistently performs exceptionally well. However, if Hazlewood is at full fitness, I believe he will directly return to the team.”

The former skipper feels that a key consideration for selectors is whether Labuschagne can effectively adapt to opening the innings, a role he has not previously undertaken at the Test level.

Labuschagne has only managed to score a single Test century since the conclusion of 2022 and did not make a significant impact during his recent stint in the County Championship with Glamorgan.

With the emerging talent Sam Konstas waiting, Australia possesses alternative options. Nevertheless, Ponting anticipates that selectors will support Labuschagne due to his experience and established role in the team.

“I believe they will likely proceed with Labuschagne,” Ponting commented.

“Reflecting on the previous World Test Championship Final, there were discussions about David Warner’s position and whether he should retain his place leading up to the match.

“There were conversations within the team about navigating that period with the existing group of players and providing them with the opportunity to compete in the final.

“Labuschagne has been an integral part of this cycle with the team, although batting at No.3, and I think they will aim to complete this cycle with the same core players, suggesting Labuschagne will be selected.

“Whether I concur with it is another matter entirely… everything will become clearer in the coming weeks.”

In conclusion, the former captain recognized that while he may not entirely agree with the decision, he comprehends the underlying logic and anticipates further clarity in the near future.

Ricky Ponting’s predicted Australia XI for World Test Championship Final: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.