Australia Drops Marnus Labuschagne for New Zealand Test Series
Australia has ruled Marnus Labuschagne out of consideration for the four-Test home series against New Zealand, a decision selectors announced on Monday, Nov. 9. The series begins in Perth on Dec. 9; chairman of selectors George Bailey said Labuschagne could still return for later tours.
Why Australia made the call before naming its squad
Bailey said the selection panel would not consider Labuschagne for the New Zealand series, although Australia has not yet named its full squad. Cricket Australia’s cricket.com.au reported Bailey said the decision would give the batter space while selectors complete their assessment after the next Sheffield Shield round.
Recent results form the immediate backdrop. ABC News, carrying an AAP report, said Labuschagne averaged 21.83 across six innings in Australia’s recent South Africa series and had gone 49 Test innings without a century. The ICC’s account of the selectors’ announcement also noted his reduced returns and said a future return remains possible.
The New Zealand series schedule
The four Tests are scheduled for Perth from Dec. 9–13, Adelaide from Dec. 17–21, Melbourne from Dec. 26–30, and Sydney from Jan. 4–8. The remaining squad is expected to be settled after the fourth round of Sheffield Shield matches, according to Bailey’s comments reported by cricket.com.au.
Bailey said a recall is still possible. The selectors have upcoming tours to India and England in 2027 to consider, while Labuschagne is expected to return to Queensland duties in domestic cricket. The decision removes him from this series, but does not amount to a permanent exclusion from Australia’s Test plans.
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Sources
ABC News (AAP): Labuschagne’s omission and recent Test form
International Cricket Council: Australia’s decision and possible future recall
