Labuschagne's spot in doubt as Australia reshapes squad for South Africa

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 01:01 · Archive

Marnus Labuschagne's position for Australia's third Test against South Africa appears in doubt following training patterns observed at Newlands in Cape Town on Sunday. Labuschagne did not bat during his normal first net rotation, instead bowling leg spin before spending time in lengthy discussions with coach Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith.

Nic Maddinson is expected to be dropped from the squad, with Matt Renshaw emerging as an option to open the batting after facing the new ball in an optional session on Saturday. Cameron Green is likely to return as a batter only, potentially batting at number three, following his lengthy engagement with fast bowlers during Sunday's session. Josh Inglis is also available again after recovering from a fractured finger.

Beau Webster and Labuschagne finished the previous Test under significant pressure alongside Maddinson, having struggled in recent matches. Cooper Connolly and Sam Harper remain on tour as additional options. Steve Smith faced only throwdowns in a brief 15-minute session due to neck soreness sustained during the second Test loss in Gqeberha. The selection decision represents one of the most intriguing in recent years following Australia's heavy defeat in that match.

Labuschagne's spot in doubt as Australia reshapes squad for South Africa — Image: Perth Now

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How it is being reported

Aussie training hints at major selection call for third Test as Marnus Labuschagne, Nic Maddinson under pressureVisible clues were hard to ignore as Australia ponders a new-look team in South Africa.Perth Now · 26 Oct, 00:01
Aussie training hints at major selection call for third Test as Marnus Labuschagne, Nic Maddinson under pressureVisible clues were hard to ignore as Australia ponders a new-look team in South Africa.The West Australian · 25 Oct, 23:17

In this story: Marnus Labuschagne · Nic Maddinson · Cameron Green · Steve Smith · Andrew McDonald · Josh Inglis · Matt Renshaw · Australia

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