Marnus Labuschagne Up Top & Josh Hazlewood In: Australia’s WTC Final XI Has a Few Surprises

Australia’s XI is part classic rock, part indie remix—familiar riffs with a surprise beat drop. Pat Cummins confirmed the lineup that Aussie great Ricky Ponting definitively predicted some weeks back, but it has a couple of twists worth exploring.

The highlight points of interest? Marnus opening, Webster in whites at Lord’s is cricket’s version of a plot twist—nobody saw it coming, but now we can’t look away. If you were thinking of a paint-by-numbers XI, think again. Let’s break it down.

Marnus the Opener: Genius or Gamble?

This was always going to raise eyebrows – From No. 3 to No. 1, Marnus has leapfrogged into the pressure cooker. According to Cummins, it is only “one spot up,” but, as they say, that one spot has a whole lot of complications, especially in England.

Opening with the Duke’s ball, in the early morning, with swing and the slope at Lord’s, is a job for the brave. That said, Marnus does have one factor in his favour: he has experience of English conditions. His Test career began at Lord’s back in 2019, and he has proven he can handle the moving ball.

I understand the rationale. David Warner is missing. There’s no seasoned opener in reserve. In steps Marnus, the rock in the storm, ready to anchor the innings with his grit and calm. Teenage sensation Sam Konstas misses out – but, at 19, he will have his time.

Hazlewood Over Boland: The Tough Call

The duel between Hazlewood and Boland was a genuine 50-50 one, but it’s the IPL-winning Hazlewood who gets the nod. Now, Boland’s fans may object and feel frustrated, but it is all part of a method.

Hazlewood has height, control, and can extract bounce and seam, even on the flattest of tracks. Now that Starc and Cummins are both in, Hazlewood’s accuracy gives the Aussie pace trio a good balance. Although Boland was undoubtedly brilliant, he may have been too similar in style to Cummins.

Cummins was clear that Boland has not been dropped for lack of form; it is merely a horses-for-courses decision. It is a long Test calendar, and you will see Boland back in, sooner rather than later.

Beau Webster: The Underrated X-Factor

And now we get to the wildcard. Beau Webster has been selected to add depth with bat and ball. Not many people would have seen him playing a role in this squad six months ago, but it is a smart selection.

Not only does Webster supply medium pace bowling, he can also provide part-time spin, an option that could be significant for Australia in English conditions. If the pitch turns or the ball gets old and soft, Webster provides Australia with a bowling option that does not upset the front six batters.

His selection reflects the selectors’ desire to think ahead, not just to the first innings. They are creating a team for the full duration of five days, and whatever the Lord can chuck at them.

Australia’s WTC Final XI strikes a balance between experience and risk-taking. Marnus as opener could be a risk or a genius. Hazlewood brings control as the all-rounder, and in essence, they have selected an adaptable team.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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