With the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa fast approaching, legendary former captain Ricky Ponting has revealed his preferred Australia XI. The final, set to be played at the iconic Lord’s from June 11, is anticipated to be a high-stakes clash between two top-tier teams. Australia, fresh off a dominant 3-1 series win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, appear to have a largely settled squad. However, several key selection dilemmas remain, particularly around the opening slot and the fast-bowling department. Ponting’s insights shed light on the likely combinations and the continuity the selectors may prefer despite patchy form among some players.
Ricky Ponting’s Australia XI for WTC final 2025 against South Africa
Ponting made a bold call by suggesting Marnus Labuschagne should move up the order to open alongside Usman Khawaja, effectively ruling out a debut for rising youngster Sam Konstas. This reshuffle pushes all-rounder Cameron Green to the crucial No. 3 slot, a role traditionally held by Labuschagne, followed by Steve Smith at his familiar position of No. 4. Travis Head, one of Australia’s most explosive middle-order batters, will take the No. 5 slot, with Beau Webster likely coming in at No. 6. Ponting included Alex Carey as wicketkeeper at No. 7, while the bowling lineup features captain Pat Cummins, left-armer Mitchell Starc and spinner Nathan Lyon. The final bowling spot remains dependent on Josh Hazlewood’s fitness, with Scott Boland waiting in the wings.
“I have just got a bit of a feeling that Marnus Labuschagne might be pushed up the order to open the batting with Khawaja. I think Green will bat at three, and Steve Smith will be at four. Then it’s Travis Head five, Beau Webster six, Carey at seven, Cummins eight, Starc nine and Lyon 10,” Ponting said in the ICC Review.
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Josh Hazlewood vs Scott Boland: Ponting reveals his choice
While the frontline pace duo of Cummins and Starc picks itself, Ponting acknowledged the tricky decision surrounding the third seamer. The long-standing debate between the experienced Hazlewood and ever-reliable Boland resurfaces once again. According to Ponting, Hazlewood will be the preferred choice, provided he’s fit. Despite Boland’s consistent success every time he has donned the Baggy Green, Ponting believes the selectors are likely to trust Hazlewood’s pedigree and experience in a pressure final at Lord’s.
“It’s a really tough selection every time because every time Boland plays, he just does so well. But unfortunately, if Hazlewood is fit, I think Hazlewood comes straight back into the team,” the former Australian captain added.
Ponting’s views on Marnus Labuschagne’s recent form in Test cricket
Labuschagne’s declining form has raised valid concerns. Since the end of 2022, he has only one century to his name and hasn’t looked convincing during his stint with Glamorgan in the County Championship. Despite the drought in runs, Ponting believes that Labuschagne will retain his place, pointing to the selectors’ preference for continuity, similar to how David Warner was backed in the last WTC final despite similar scrutiny. He added that the decision may not necessarily reflect form but will prioritize team familiarity and stability, especially in a high-pressure one-off game like the WTC final.
“And there was a bit of talk around the team about wanting to get through that period or that phase or, if you like, with the same group of players and give them the chance to, to be able to play off in that one-off final. Labuschagne has been through this cycle with the team, albeit batting at No.3, and I think they will want to get through the cycle with the same players, so I think Labuschagne will get the nod. Whether I agree with it or not, it’s a different thing…all will be revealed in the next couple of weeks,” Ponting concluded.
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