Australia has named a strong 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s, with young opener Sam Konstas and all-rounder Cameron Green included in a group full of experience and options.
Konstas, who made a memorable debut against India last December, returns after being left out for the Sri Lanka series. His inclusion reignites debate over who will open alongside Usman Khawaja. Australia opted for Travis Head at the top in subcontinent conditions recently, but the more traditional option of Konstas could be preferred in English conditions.
Cameron Green, back after recovering from back surgery, adds further complexity to the selection puzzle. Currently available as a batter only, Green has had mixed recent form for Gloucestershire but remains a strong contender for the middle order. Selectors may consider moving Marnus Labuschagne to the top to accommodate Green at No. 3, or possibly replacing Beau Webster at No. 6 — although that would sacrifice a fifth bowling option.
“There are still a few moving parts,” said chair of selectors George Bailey. “Cameron Green’s return gives us flexibility, and we’ll decide based on form, fitness, and conditions closer to the match.”
Australia’s fast-bowling stocks are in good shape, with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc all named despite recent injury concerns. Hazlewood, who missed the 2023 WTC final, is expected to be fit this time. Brendan Doggett, coming off a strong domestic season, has been named as a travelling reserve.
Preparations have been complicated by the resumption of the IPL, which runs until June 3 — just a week before the final. Players involved will have individualized plans, and a pre-tour camp in Scotland is scheduled for late May.
The same squad will also travel to the West Indies for a three-Test series immediately following the WTC final, making squad balance and workload management even more important.
Australia’s WTC Final and West Indies Tour Squad
Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett
Read More: IPL 2025 Revised Schedule: 2025 Season to Resume on May 17, Final Slated for June 3
