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Australia have announced a formidable 15-player squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa at Lord’s, with three key players making their much-anticipated return from injury. The squad, led by Pat Cummins, is packed with experience and depth as the reigning champions aim to defend their title in the one-off clash starting June 11.
3 major players make a return to the Australian squad
The headline news is the comeback of skipper Cummins, seasoned pacer Josh Hazlewood, and dynamic all-rounder Cameron Green. Cummins and Hazlewood missed Australia’s recent Test series in Sri Lanka due to injury, while Green is set for his first Test appearance in over a year after recovering from back surgery. Green, who had surgery for a stress fracture in his lower back last October, has proven his fitness with a successful stint in English county cricket, paving the way for his return to the national side.
Chief selector George Bailey expressed optimism about the squad’s balance and readiness in the media release by Cricket Australia, stating, “We are fortunate and looking forward to having Pat, Josh and Cam back in the squad. Those series capped a consistent performance across the two-year cycle and now presents us with the incredibly exciting opportunity to defend the World Test Championship. It means a lot to the group to reach the final and they are very much looking forward to the challenge South Africa will present at Lord’s”.
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Australia’s winning formula for WTC final 2025
Australia’s 15-player squad is a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising talent. Alongside Cummins, the pace attack is bolstered by Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Hazlewood. The spin department features the experienced Nathan Lyon and left-arm option Matt Kuhnemann, who edged out Todd Murphy for a place in the squad.
The batting unit remains formidable, with Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Travis Head forming the backbone. Exciting teenager Sam Konstas retains his spot after a promising start to his international career, while all-rounders Green and Beau Webster add flexibility to the lineup. Behind the stumps, Alex Carey is the first-choice wicketkeeper, supported by Josh Inglis as backup. Brendan Doggett will travel as a reserve player, ensuring cover across all departments.
Australia’s squad will also travel to the Caribbean for a three-match Test series against the West Indies following the WTC Final, demonstrating the selectors’ confidence in this group’s ability to perform in diverse conditions.
Australia squad for WTC final 2025: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett