ISLAMABAD (PEN) : With the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa fast approaching, Australia is still weighing its options for a permanent opening partner for veteran batter Usman Khawaja following David Warner’s retirement.
Head selector George Bailey confirmed on Tuesday that the opening spot remains open just weeks before the high-stakes match at Lord’s, scheduled from June 11 to 15. Warner, who retired in January 2024, left a significant gap at the top of the order, leading to a revolving door of partners for Khawaja across 11 Tests.
Several Candidates, No Clear Choice
Australia’s selection panel named a squad for both the WTC final and the upcoming West Indies tour, but the opening conundrum remains unresolved.
“I do think that it’s a role that more people could do than we would probably give credit to,” Bailey said. “There is a prevailing thought that it’s a specialised role, but I think in certain conditions there’s opportunities at different times where other guys could do it.”
Since Warner’s departure, Steve Smith briefly opened before moving back down the order. Nathan McSweeney has been dropped, while Travis Head and teenage prospect Sam Konstas remain in contention.
Konstas made a strong debut against India in 2024 but was omitted from the squad for the Sri Lanka tour earlier this year. “It’s pretty clear that he’s not the finished product,” Bailey acknowledged. “He’s a highly talented player. But again, that’s not to discount his ability to play in the World Test Championship, should he be required.”
Green’s Return Adds to the Shuffle
All-rounder Cameron Green has returned to the squad after back surgery, though he will initially play solely as a batsman. His inclusion has prompted discussions about shifting Marnus Labuschagne to the opening role to maintain team balance.
“I think Marnus could open the batting,” Bailey noted. “A number of guys could open the batting, but certainly that’s not to say that they will.”
Travis Head, meanwhile, has thrived in the middle order in English conditions, making his selection as an opener uncertain despite being in form.
Road Ahead: WTC Final and West Indies Tour
Australia will face South Africa in the one-off WTC final at Lord’s next month before heading to the Caribbean for a three-Test series. With the clock ticking, selectors have limited time to finalize a settled top-order combination.
The Proteas, meanwhile, have named a strong squad featuring pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, setting the stage for a high-octane contest as both sides vie for the world title.
