A big change is coming to Australian Test cricket. For the first time since December 2018, the Australian team will play a Test match without two of its most famous modern-day players Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. This historic moment will happen in the first Test against West Indies, starting this Wednesday. It is also the beginning of both teams journey in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.
Australia have announced their playing XI, and the absence of Smith and Labuschagne has grabbed major headlines. With Smith injured and Labuschagne dropped after poor form, a new era begins for the Australian Test side. Young talents are ready to step in, while experienced players will aim to lead the way. Let us look at the full story behind this new squad, the reasons for the changes, and what it means for the future of Australian cricket.
The End of a Long Era: Smith and Labuschagne Both Missing
Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne have been the backbone of Australia Test batting line-up for several years. Since 2018, they played nearly every Test together, forming a strong partnership in the middle order. Their absence in the same match is a rare event and a major moment in Australian cricket history.
Smith is ruled out due to a finger injury he picked up during the WTC 2023-25 final against South Africa. Labuschagne, on the other hand, was left out of the squad due to poor form. He opened in the WTC final but failed to score big runs. These changes mark the beginning of a new chapter in the team.
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New Faces Step In: Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis Included
Teenager Sam Konstas is set to return to the Test side. He made his debut during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India and left a strong impression. Only 19 years old, Konstas showed good skills and calmness during his two-Test appearances. He was later rested for the Sri Lanka tour and the WTC final, but now gets another chance to shine. He replaces Labuschagne in the playing XI.
Josh Inglis also returns, replacing Smith in the batting line-up. A solid wicketkeeper-batter, Inglis brings experience from limited-overs cricket and some Test matches. His ability to play both attacking and defensive shots makes him a good fit for the team. Inglis will strengthen the middle order and take on the challenge of facing a fired-up West Indies bowling attack.
Australia Playing XI: Mix of Experience and Youth
Here is the playing XI for Australia in the first Test against West Indies:
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
This team includes a strong mix of experience and fresh talent. Usman Khawaja will provide calmness at the top. Cameron Green and Travis Head are already established Test players. Beau Webster, a useful all-rounder, continues to develop. Pat Cummins leads the side with his experienced fast bowling partners Starc and Hazlewood. Nathan Lyon adds world-class spin to the attack.
Sam Konstas: A Young Talent with Big Dreams
Sam Konstas is one of the most exciting young players in Australian cricket. At just 19, he already made a strong impact in his debut series against India. He plays with confidence and strong technique. His return to the team is a sign that selectors believe in his long-term potential.
Replacing someone like Labuschagne is not easy, but Konstas has the ability to take that responsibility. He will likely bat in the top order and face the new ball, which is always a challenge in Test cricket. If he performs well, this series could become a turning point in his career.
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Josh Inglis: Ready for a Bigger Role
Josh Inglis has waited patiently for his chance in Test cricket. He played in limited formats earlier but now gets a major role in the longest format. With Smith not available, Inglis has to help build partnerships and hold the middle order.
Inglis brings versatility to the batting line-up. He can switch gears depending on the situation. Also, having another wicketkeeping option along with Alex Carey gives Australia more balance in team selection. This series could be a breakthrough moment for Inglis in Test cricket.
The Role of Experienced Stars: Cummins, Starc, and Lyon
While some big names are missing, Australia still have a strong core of experienced players. Pat Cummins continues as captain and will lead the pace attack. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood bring years of skill and power. Nathan Lyon, one of the world’s top spinners, will play a key role on spinning tracks or as a control option.
These players will support the young talents and maintain the high standards of Australian Test cricket. Their leadership will be important in guiding the new players during tough phases of the match.
West Indies Challenge: A Fresh Start for Both Teams
This Test is not just important for Australia. West Indies also see it as a fresh start. Both teams begin their journey in the new WTC cycle. A strong start can boost confidence and ranking early in the competition.
West Indies have been rebuilding their Test team over the past few years. They have some promising players and will look to test Australia, especially in the early sessions of the match. The visitors will try to take advantage of Australia’s slightly new batting order.
What This Means for the Future of Australian Cricket
Not having Smith and Labuschagne in the same Test team is a big change. But it also opens doors for new players to step up and shine. Australia have always built strong teams through transitions, and this moment is no different.
Young players like Konstas, Green, and Inglis now have the chance to become long-term stars. This series will be a test of character and skill. If the new players perform well, it will give the team more depth and options going forward. The coaching staff will also observe closely to build the best squad for the next few years.
Also Read: https://www.cricinfotoday.com/virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-t20-records/
World Test Championship 2025-27: The Bigger Picture
The match is the start of a long journey in the new WTC cycle. Australia reached the final of the last two editions and won one of them. Their aim will be to reach the final again and win it.
Every Test match matters in this format. Points are given for each win, and consistency is key. The team will want to begin with a solid performance and avoid dropping early points. Playing at home gives them a good chance to start strong.
Conclusion
The absence of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne is a big talking point, but it is also a moment of opportunity. Australia now enters a new phase, with young stars taking on bigger roles. Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis will be watched closely, while experienced players will guide them through.
This match against West Indies could mark the beginning of a fresh, strong Australian team. The journey of WTC 2025-27 starts here, and fans can expect exciting action, new heroes, and a lot of memorable moments in the days ahead.
FAQs
Why are Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne not playing in the first Test against West Indies?
Steve Smith is out due to a finger injury he got during the WTC final against South Africa. Marnus Labuschagne was dropped after poor performance in the same final.
Who are the players replacing Smith and Labuschagne in the squad?
Youngster Sam Konstas replaces Labuschagne, and Josh Inglis comes in for Smith.
When did Australia last play a Test without both Smith and Labuschagne?
Australia last played a Test without both Smith and Labuschagne in December 2018.
What is the importance of this Test series?
This series marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 for both Australia and West Indies.
Who is leading the Australian team in this Test?
Pat Cummins continues as the captain of the Australian Test team.
