{
  "id": 19061689,
  "title": "Australia axe Labuschagne for New Zealand Tests",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/09/australia-axe-labuschagne-for-new-zealand-tests",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-09T01:16:34.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/cricket/2026/11/1573716/australia-axe-labuschagne-new-zealand-tests"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Marnus Labuschagne has been removed from Australia's squad ahead of their upcoming four-Test series against New Zealand due to a lack of form. The experienced number three, who has played 68 Tests, missed out in the recent South African tour and struggled in the three Tests.\n\nChairman of selectors George Bailey told cricket.com.au that Labuschagne will not be considered for selection in the first Test against New Zealand, but the team might reconsider for the New Zealand series. Speculation has been rife about Labuschagne's place in the team, and Bailey's decision is intended to clear up the conjecture while they focus on the next round of domestic red-ball cricket.\n\nLabuschagne, once ranked the world's top batter, faced a challenging tour of South Africa, with his highest score being 39. He has not scored a century since the 2023 Ashes series against England. However, Bailey left the door open for a potential recall if Labuschagne regains his form in domestic cricket. Despite his recent struggles, Bailey emphasized that no player has been permanently ruled out. The first Test against New Zealand is scheduled for December 9 in Perth, with the squad expected to be announced after the following round of Shield action commences. With Labuschagne's departure, Steve Smith is predicted to move up to the three position.",
  "summary": "SYDNEY: Marnus Labuschagne was axed from Australia’s squad today for their upcoming four-Test series against New Zealand, paying the price for a long run of poor form.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}