Australia Playing XI Announced for WTC Final 2025 – Labuschagne to Open

Australia’s Playing XI Confirmed for WTC Final 2025

Marnus Labuschagne to Open in WTC Final 2025: Australia’s Playing XI Revealed

Australia have named their final playing XI for the World Test Championship Final 2025, and the decision has generated plenty of discussion around the inclusion of key players and some surprise positional shifts. Announced by captain Pat Cummins in a pre-match press conference at Lord’s, the Australia playing XI confirms that Marnus Labuschagne will step up to open the innings alongside the seasoned Usman Khawaja. This move, backed by Cummins and previously predicted by Ricky Ponting, shows the management’s confidence in Labuschagne’s adaptability and technique in English conditions.

The final will mark a unique moment in Australian Test cricket – not only defending their World Test Championship crown but also transitioning into a refreshed batting order post-David Warner. Instead of bringing in an uncapped opener like Sam Konstas, selectors have taken the safer, experienced route.

Cummins Explains Australia’s Strategic Choices

Pat Cummins was clear in his explanation: while Konstas is an exciting young talent, the occasion called for experience. According to Cummins, shifting Marnus Labuschagne to open wasn’t a dramatic change, but rather “just one spot up,” and one that takes advantage of Labuschagne’s familiarity with English conditions, especially at Lord’s.

“Opening the batting can be tough,” said Cummins, “but it can also be the best time to bat, before the Dukes ball starts swinging. There’s a scoring opportunity early on, and Marnus has the temperament to handle it.”

Sam Konstas, just 19, was reportedly disappointed to miss out on a debut at such a grand stage. However, Cummins highlighted how this experience – even from the sidelines – would be valuable in his long-term growth. “He’s really young. He’s got a long career ahead of him. This is just the beginning.”

Josh Hazlewood In, Boland Misses Out

One of the most closely watched selection battles was between Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland. The final decision saw Hazlewood slot into the pace trio alongside Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, edging out Boland despite the Victorian’s reliable performances over the past two years.

Hazlewood, fresh off his IPL 2025 triumph with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, brings with him rhythm, experience, and match fitness – three factors that reportedly swung the decision in his favor. Cummins paid respect to Boland’s consistency, saying, “There are guys you don’t drop unless you absolutely have to. Scott’s done nothing wrong. It’s just unfortunate.”

The captain also made it clear that Boland remains a vital part of Australia’s future Test plans. “This is not the end. We’re going to need every fast bowler in our arsenal over the next couple of years.”

Cameron Green Returns, Beau Webster Retains His Place

Another big positive for the Australians is the return of Cameron Green. Having recovered from back surgery, Green’s inclusion adds depth to both the batting and bowling departments. He will take on the No. 3 role, providing a solid bridge between the openers and the middle order comprising Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Beau Webster.

Webster, meanwhile, retains his place after a strong home summer and offers a dual-threat as a part-time bowler with both medium pace and off-spin. The Victorian all-rounder has grown in confidence and versatility, and his spot in the XI reflects the selectors’ commitment to grooming multi-dimensional players.

Keeper and Bowling Unit Set for Lord’s Test

Alex Carey continues behind the stumps, providing left-handed balance and calm experience in the lower middle order. The spin department, unsurprisingly, will be led by the veteran Nathan Lyon, who will be crucial in controlling the tempo during the longer spells and holding one end on what is expected to be a sporting Lord’s pitch.

The pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood needs no introduction. The Australian captain’s leadership, Starc’s raw pace and reverse swing, and Hazlewood’s relentless control make for a formidable attack – one that England and South Africa have often struggled against in the past.

Full Australia Playing XI for WTC Final 2025

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

Australia Set for WTC Title Defence at Lord’s

The WTC Final 2025 will not just be about retaining a title for Australia – it’s about ushering in the next generation of Test cricket strategy. By trusting Marnus Labuschagne as an opener, backing a returning Cameron Green, and continuing with new talents like Webster, Australia are showcasing their readiness for the future while relying on proven warhorses like Cummins, Starc, Smith, and Lyon.

As the stage sets at Lord’s, the message is clear: Australia are here to compete, dominate, and defend their crown with a team that blends experience with bold, forward-thinking moves.