Australia's Pat Cummins Backs Cameron Green for World Test Championship Final
Cummins Supports Green's Inclusion in Batting Lineup
London [UK], June 10: As Australia prepares to face South Africa in the World Test Championship Final on June 11, captain Pat Cummins has expressed confidence in Cameron Green's selection for the batting order, attributing it to his impressive recent performances.
“Cameron Green has shown remarkable form in recent weeks, and we believe he deserves a place in the batting lineup. We think batting at number three will suit him well. With Marnus moving up, it’s essentially just one position higher, which isn’t a significant change. He has performed admirably in England before,” Cummins stated, as reported by a sports media outlet.
He also noted that the selectors are giving Marnus Labuschagne more chances due to his vital contributions that have helped the team reach this stage.
“Our selectors seem inclined to allow players to have an extended run rather than making hasty decisions. Marnus has played key innings that have been pivotal for us, such as his performance at the MCG against India, which was a game-changer. This approach rewards those who have contributed to our success,” he added.
Labuschagne has accumulated 935 runs across 36 innings in the current WTC cycle, with a top score of 111 and an average of 28.33, including one century and eight fifties. Green is set to make his return to Test cricket following back surgery, while Beau Webster will maintain his position in the XI, offering support with both medium pace and spin.
Australia has not lost a Test series in the last two years, achieving victories in New Zealand and Sri Lanka, and retaining the Ashes in England in 2023.
They also triumphed over Pakistan and India at home, alongside a draw against the West Indies, securing their place in the WTC final against South Africa. This marks Australia's second consecutive appearance in the WTC final, while it is South Africa's inaugural entry, raising the stakes significantly.
Australia's playing XI for the WTC Final includes: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. Marnus Labuschagne, 3. Cameron Green, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Beau Webster, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood.