Australia Names Labuschagne Opener, Hazlewood Return for WTC Final at Lord’s

Australia has finalized its playing eleven for the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's, with Marnus Labuschagne promoted to opener alongside Usman Khawaja following David Warner's retirement. Labuschagne, who has not previously opened in Test cricket and has faced recent form challenges, moves up to accommodate the returning Cameron Green at number three after his back surgery recovery. Josh Hazlewood returns to the pace attack, replacing Scott Boland, while the middle order includes Steve Smith, Travis Head, and all-rounder Beau Webster. Captain Pat Cummins leads the team with a bowling lineup featuring Mitchell Starc, Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. South Africa counters with experienced pacer Lungi Ngidi preferred over Dane Paterson and Kagiso Rabada returning from suspension. The Australian selections reflect a balance of rewarding proven contributors and managing fitness ahead of their title defense and upcoming Ashes series.