Labuschagne Axed as Australia Unveil New ODI Generation

SYDNEY: (Sports Desk) – Marnus Labuschagne has been left out of Australia’s ODI squad for the upcoming tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, with selectors opting to inject fresh talent into the side ahead of next year’s World Cup.

Labuschagne was an important member of Australia’s 2023 World Cup-winning campaign, but a disappointing run of form has cost him his place in the 17-man squad. His position in the Test team could also come under scrutiny, with Australia’s next red-ball assignment against South Africa looming in October.

Australia will play three ODIs in Zimbabwe before heading to South Africa for another three matches. The six-game series will serve as an important preparation block for the World Cup, which will be staged in the same region next year.

Selectors have rewarded several promising youngsters, including 19-year-old batting prospect Ollie Peake, along with all-rounders Joel Davies, 22, and Cooper Connolly, 23.

Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head and Josh Hazlewood are back after sitting out Australia’s earlier ODI assignments in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc will join the squad for the South African leg, with their appearances being carefully managed because of workload concerns.

Australia have plenty of fast-bowling depth, with Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett and Billy Stanlake also included. Adam Zampa is the squad’s only specialist spinner, while Matthew Kuhnemann has been omitted.

Chief selector George Bailey said the six-match campaign would provide valuable preparation ahead of next year’s World Cup.

He highlighted the return of several senior players while stressing the importance of giving younger members of the squad greater exposure at international level.

Peake and Davies have been handed another opportunity to develop within the Australian setup, while Connolly continues to build his reputation as one of the country’s promising young all-rounders.

Australia have also announced an Australia A squad for a tour of India later this month. The programme includes two four-day fixtures and three one-day matches against India A.

Labuschagne’s uncertain Test future adds extra importance to the Australia A campaign, with Peter Handscomb and Nathan McSweeney among those hoping to strengthen their claims before Australia’s five-Test tour of India in January and February.

Fast bowlers Brendan Doggett and Jhye Richardson will also feature in the Australia A four-day squad, adding further depth to the group.