No Scott Boland as Australia announces playing XI for the WTC 2025 final against South Africa

Australia have announced their playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final against South Africa, with pacer Scott Boland missing out while the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will lead the bowling attack. The match begins on June 11 at Lord’s, with Australia aiming to defend their WTC crown. South Africa, meanwhile, are still searching for their maiden ICC trophy.

Australia replaces Scott Boland with an gun all-rounder

The exclusion of Scott Boland, who had previously excelled in English conditions during the WTC 2023 final against India, has raised eyebrows ahead of the final. Instead, selectors have backed 30-year-old all-rounder Beau Webster, known for his versatility with both bat and ball. Standing at 6’6”, Webster provides a seam-bowling option while strengthening the lower-middle order. He has been consistent in domestic cricket and impressed in the recent warm-up games.

With Australia aiming for batting depth and balance, Webster’s ability to chip in with medium pace and counterattack with the bat could prove vital. The move also offers greater tactical flexibility, especially with Travis Head and Cameron Green available as part-time bowlers. Boland’s omission suggests a horses-for-courses strategy as Australia opt for a longer batting tail and an extra seam option that can double as a batting insurance.

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Pace core retained with Nathan Lyon trusted as lone spinner

Captain Cummins will lead a familiar pace unit featuring Starc and Hazlewood, both proven match-winners in English conditions. While Boland’s absence is notable, the trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood brings both pace and variation. Nathan Lyon, the only specialist spinner in the squad, retains his spot and is expected to play a vital role on a dry Lord’s surface later in the match.

Alex Carey continues as the wicketkeeper, with his batting also expected to shore up the lower order. The top order remains unchanged, featuring Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and Head with Green adding further balance as the seam-bowling all-rounder. Australia’s combination suggests they are confident in attacking South Africa with relentless pace early on, while relying on Lyon for control in the later stages. Their playing XI reflects both experience and tactical versatility aimed at securing back-to-back WTC titles.

Australia’s playing XI for the WTC 2025 final against South Africa:

Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk),  Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood.

Also READ: South Africa announces playing XI for the WTC 2025 final against Australia