Australia axe Labuschagne for New Zealand test series

Australia has decided to drop Marnus Labuschagne for the upcoming four-test home series against New Zealand, following a difficult period in his form. This decision comes after Labuschagne has gone 49 innings without a century and struggled during a recent tour of South Africa, where he scored a duck and a solitary four in the final test, contributing to Australia's 2-1 defeat in that series.

Speaking to reporters, selector George Bailey confirmed that Labuschagne will not be included in the New Zealand series, giving him an opportunity to clear up any conjecture surrounding his position in the team. Labuschagne's recent performances have been poor, averaging just 23.66 and managing only two half-centuries in 10 tests since being dropped for Australia's three-test series against the West Indies in the Caribbean last year.

Labuschagne will return to captain Queensland in the Sheffield Shield while selectors determine replacements for the New Zealand series. Bailey mentioned that Labuschagne could still regain his place in the team for next year's tours to India and England, given his potential effectiveness when performing at his best. However, the current form of the Australian top order, which has been in constant flux since opener David Warner's retirement nearly three years ago, is in need of further changes.

Steve Smith, who is expected to return from injury for the New Zealand opener in Perth on December 9, could potentially bat at number three in Labuschagne's absence. However, Smith has shown reluctance to move from his preferred number four slot since an ill-fated stint as an opener. Other potential candidates for the top order include all-rounder Cameron Green, who has previously batted at number three at test level, and Matt Renshaw, who could also be considered, although it would mean adding another opener to the team.

Further squad decisions will be finalized following the next round of Shield matches, which begins on Wednesday. Former test batters Kurtis Patterson and Sam Konstas are among the standout performers for Australia in the Shield season.