Australia Coach Backs Labuschagne and Khawaja Despite Lean Returns

Andrew McDonald, Australia's head coach, has expressed his support for Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, despite their recent lean returns in the World Test Championship final.

Labuschagne's Future

McDonald believes Labuschagne is a key part of Australia's future, citing his impressive start to his Test career in 2019. Despite averaging 26.71 in 13 Tests since the start of 2024, McDonald is confident that Labuschagne can return to his best.

"He's a big part of the future of the team. Anyone that averages 45 or 46 in Test cricket at that age is important," McDonald said.

Khawaja's Role

Khawaja, who will turn 39 this December, is expected to remain in Australia's plans for the Ashes series later this year. McDonald described Khawaja as an "important player" and praised his ability to provide stability at the top of the order.

"He gives us stability at his best at the top. And we like to look at our players at their best," McDonald said.

Team Combinations

Australia will begin a new WTC cycle with a three-Test tour of the Caribbean, which offers the side a chance to reassess combinations and adapt to slower surfaces.

"It's always a combination and the connection between each series and the surfaces that you play on can be quite different," McDonald said.

"We feel as though we have got a squad that can cover all bases. Will we get spinning conditions? We've got two spinners in the squad, so do we shift into our sort of spin line up in terms of the way that we play?"