Daijiworld Media Network - Perth
Perth, Nov 9: Australia have confirmed that former world No. 1 Test batter Marnus Labuschagne will not be considered for selection for their upcoming four-match ICC World Test Championship series against New Zealand, following a prolonged dip in form.
The 32-year-old right-hander managed just 131 runs in six innings during Australia's recent three-match series in South Africa. He has also gone without a Test century since 2023 and has slipped to equal 40th in the latest ICC Test batting rankings, a significant fall from the top position he occupied in 2021.
Australia's selection chair George Bailey confirmed on Monday that Labuschagne would not be part of the team's plans for the series, which begins in Perth on December 9. Bailey said the decision would give the batter clarity as he looks to regain form through domestic cricket.
"At this stage we won't be considering Marn (Labuschagne) for selection for certainly that first Test, but for the New Zealand series," Bailey said.
He added that the decision would provide Labuschagne with some space amid speculation over his place in the team while allowing selectors to assess other options during the next round of Sheffield Shield matches.
Bailey, however, made it clear that Labuschagne's international career was not over and that a return remained possible if he rediscovered his best form.
"We all know how good and how effective Marnus can be at his best. But that performance hasn't been there," Bailey said, pointing to missed opportunities in Darwin and South Africa, where promising starts did not turn into substantial scores.
Australia are currently third in the World Test Championship standings and will be keen to secure strong results against New Zealand to improve their chances of qualifying for next year's final at The Oval in June.
The team also face a demanding schedule, with a five-match Test series in India early next year and the Ashes against England in 2027. Bailey indicated that the upcoming opportunities could provide Labuschagne with a route back into the side.
Australia are yet to announce their squad for the New Zealand series. Bailey said several players outside the current Test setup were making strong cases for selection, with the selectors expected to finalise the squad in the coming days.
The four-Test series will begin in Perth from December 9 to 13, followed by the second Test in Adelaide from December 17 to 21. The third match will be played in Melbourne from December 26 to 30, while the final Test is scheduled in Sydney from January 4 to 8.