AUSTRALIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL 2025 ANNOUNCED! GREEN IS BACK, KONSTAS MAKES THE CUT
Cricket Australia has announced a full-strength, experienced squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord’s, with Pat Cummins set to lead the charge as they aim to defend their title.
The highly anticipated clash, beginning June 11, will also mark the return of key players Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, and skipper Cummins, all of whom missed recent Test action due to injuries.
Green Returns After Lengthy Injury Layoff
All-rounder Cameron Green makes a significant comeback after more than a year out of the Test setup following back surgery. Currently playing county cricket with Gloucestershire, Green has shown glimpses of form, including a century on debut, although his recent scores have been modest. With his bowling expected to be on hold until later this year, his selection could reshape Australia's batting lineup if he's included purely as a batter.
Konstas Among Key Inclusions
Teenage prodigy Sam Konstas has also been named in the 15-player squad, adding intrigue to Australia's top-order configuration. Konstas, who made headlines with a sensational debut against India, was overlooked in the Sri Lanka series due to tactical choices. With opener David Warner now retired and selectors weighing several options, Konstas is in contention to partner Usman Khawaja at the top.
Selectors have hinted at flexible options, including the possibility of promoting Marnus Labuschagne or Josh Inglis, both of whom could slot into the opening role depending on final decisions closer to the Test.
Bowling Unit at Full Strength
The pace attack will be spearheaded by Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Hazlewood, who has recovered from recent shoulder issues. Starc and Hazlewood are easing back into competitive action, with their fitness being closely monitored. Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon is joined by left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann, providing variety in the spin department.
Squad Stability and Dual Tour Duty
The same squad will travel to the Caribbean for a three-Test series against the West Indies starting June 26. Brendan Doggett, who impressed during the domestic season and is currently playing county cricket in England, has been named as the traveling reserve.
Despite the IPL schedule impacting a few squad members, Cricket Australia officials have stated that individual preparations are being tailored to ensure minimal disruption to the WTC final buildup. A pre-series camp in Scotland will precede the team's shift to London.
AUSTRALIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL 2025
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett