Marnus Labuschagne Poised for Ashes Comeback as Opener

Marnus Labuschagne's Absence from Test Cricket

Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne has not participated in the Test squad since the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 against South Africa, as reported by the ICC.

After this final, he was excluded from the team during the West Indies tour due to a disappointing performance, averaging just 33.08 since December 2022.

Labuschagne Eager to Open in the Ashes

The batsman is now set to make his return to the international red-ball format, aiming to take on the opening position in the forthcoming Ashes series.

"I would be happy to do that [open batting] - I would love to. If opener is where I need to bat to be playing in the Test team, that's fine," Labuschagne expressed.

Shifting Roles in the Team

Although opening is not Labuschagne's preferred position, Cameron Green has excelled at No. 3, which was Labuschagne's previous role, scoring 184 runs in six innings during the West Indies series.

Labuschagne's Career Preferences

This situation may lead Labuschagne to attempt opening once more, and he is ready for the challenge.

"If you had asked me where I prefer to bat, obviously, I have batted at three my whole career, but at this stage, you don't get a choice. I opened in the World Test Championship final and felt I batted quite well. I got in but did not go on with it," he noted.

Performance Review

In the final at Lord's, Labuschagne managed to score 39 runs across two innings, showing promise but unable to capitalize on his starts. However, with three Sheffield Shield matches scheduled before the home Tests, he remains a contender, especially considering Sam Konstas' struggles in the West Indies, where he scored only 50 runs in six innings.

Labuschagne continues to be part of the ODI setup and is expected to participate in the upcoming three-match series against South Africa.