Australia has unveiled a formidable 15-member squad for the 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to face South Africa at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11 to 15. With several big names making their much-anticipated return, the defending champions are aiming to secure back-to-back WTC titles in style.
Pat Cummins Leads a Full-Strength Lineup
Captain Pat Cummins headlines the squad, marking his return after missing the recent Test series in Sri Lanka due to injury. Joining him are fast-bowling spearhead Josh Hazlewood and dynamic all-rounder Cameron Green, both of whom have recovered from injuries and are ready to bolster Australia’s campaign.
Key highlights of the squad:
- Pat Cummins resumes captaincy duties.
- Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green return after injury layoffs.
- Steve Smith continues as vice-captain.
- Teenager Sam Konstas and all-rounder Beau Webster included.
- Brendan Doggett travels as a reserve pacer.
Australia’s 15-Member Squad for the WTC Final
Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith (vice-captain), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett
Selection Talking Points: Who Will Open With Khawaja?
One of the biggest selection questions is who will partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order. Travis Head, who opened in Sri Lanka, is expected to return to his preferred middle-order role. This opens the door for teenager Sam Konstas, who impressed during the Border-Gavaskar series, or possibly a reshuffle involving Marnus Labuschagne moving up the order.
Potential opening options:
- Sam Konstas: Young opener with a strong debut against India.
- Marnus Labuschagne: Could be promoted to open, allowing Green to slot into the middle order.
- Travis Head: Likely to bat at No. 5, his most successful position.
The Return of Cameron Green
Cameron Green’s comeback is a major boost for Australia. After undergoing back surgery and missing over a year of international cricket, Green returned to form in county cricket with Gloucestershire. His versatility as an all-rounder gives the selectors valuable flexibility, especially with the middle-order composition.
Bowling Depth: Pace and Spin Covered
Australia’s bowling attack is stacked with experience and variety:
- Fast bowlers: Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland.
- Spinners: Nathan Lyon (first-choice), Matt Kuhnemann (backup).
- All-rounders: Cameron Green and Beau Webster provide balance.
Wicketkeeping Options
Alex Carey remains the first-choice wicketkeeper, with Josh Inglis-who scored a century on Test debut-available as a backup. Inglis also offers additional batting depth if required.
Preparation and IPL Complications
Several Australian squad members are involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which resumes just a week before the WTC final. Cricket Australia has assured support for players’ individual decisions regarding IPL participation, with a pre-tour camp scheduled in Scotland before the team heads to London.
FAQs: Australia’s World Test Championship Final Squad
1. Who is leading Australia in the WTC Final 2025?
Pat Cummins returns as captain for the WTC Final against South Africa, bringing leadership and pace to the squad.
2. Which key players are making a comeback for Australia?
Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green are back after injuries, while Pat Cummins also returns after missing the Sri Lanka series.
3. Who are the main contenders for the opening slot alongside Usman Khawaja?
Sam Konstas and Marnus Labuschagne are the leading candidates, with selectors yet to confirm the final XI.
4. Who are Australia’s spin options for the final?
Nathan Lyon is the primary spinner, with Matt Kuhnemann included as backup.
5. Is the same squad traveling for the West Indies Tests?
Yes, the 15-member squad will also play the three-match Test series in the Caribbean after the WTC Final.
Conclusion
Australia’s World Test Championship final squad is a blend of experience, youth, and returning stars, perfectly poised to defend their title at Lord’s. With a full-strength team and several selection puzzles to solve, all eyes will be on the Aussies as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against South Africa. The countdown to June 11 promises excitement, strategy, and world-class cricket from the defending champions.