Marnus Labuschagne Eyes Test Return, Open to Batting at the Top

Marnus Labuschagne has expressed his willingness to open the batting for Australia if it means a swift return to the Test XI. The 31-year-old has struggled for form in red-ball cricket, leading to his axing from the recent West Indies tour.

Labuschagne is expected to feature in the ODI XI against South Africa this month, but his focus is on regaining his spot in the Test team. With Cameron Green slotting in at No.3, Labuschagne's best bet could be opening the batting, especially with young Sam Konstas not making an impact in the three Tests.

"I would be happy to open," Labuschagne said. "I would love to. If opener is where I need to bat to be playing in the Test team, that's fine."

Labuschagne's immediate thoughts after being left out of the Test team were on the upcoming Ashes series, and he will use the next three Sheffield Shield games and ODIs to strengthen his case.