Labuschagne and Smith Out for Barbados Test

Australia has dropped Marnus Labuschagne from the Test squad for the first time in six years ahead of the opening match against the West Indies in Barbados, citing a decline in his batting average from 60 to below 47 and no centuries since July 2023. Steve Smith will also miss the first Test due to a finger injury sustained during the recent World Test Championship final loss to South Africa, with hopes of returning for the second Test. Young opener Sam Konstas, who impressed on debut against India, and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who scored a century on debut in Sri Lanka, have been called up to the squad. Chief selector George Bailey reaffirmed support for Labuschagne and said he will work closely with coaches to regain form. The final batting order for the first Test has not yet been decided. These moves reflect Australia's intent to refresh the lineup and respond to both form and injury setbacks.