Green gets crucial role as Aussies lock in new-look final XI with batting order reshuffle




Australia have opted against using second spinner Matt Kuhnemann for the first Test against the West Indies in Barbados.

And Josh Inglis will slot in at four in the batting order with Sam Konstas confirmed to open with Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green holding onto the No.3 position.

Green made just four and a duck and there had been speculation that he would be shifted down a spot but Test captain Pat Cummins is backing him to make the position his own in light of Marnus Labuschagne’s recent axing following an extended form slump.

“We always like to not have too many moving parts,” Cummins said.

“We see (Green at three) as a long-term option.

“He’s hitting the ball really well; he’s moving really well. He had a Test match where it didn’t go to plan, and he only faced (five) balls.

“The message is not to look into that too much. We’re really happy with where his game is placed and I dare say he’ll get a decent run at number three.

“Not much has changed from last week and we’re happy with where everyone else is batting – Sammy (Konstas) is obviously an opener and the available spot for Josh this week is at number four.”

Inglis could have just one chance on tour with Steve Smith hoping to be fit for the second Test after suffering a finger injury in the World Test Championship final loss to South Africa.

Cummins said Kuhnemann was close to getting the nod with his left-arm spinners but the pitch appears to favour pace.

Sam Konstas of Australia bats during day one of the Men's Fourth Test Match in the series between Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)

Sam Konstas. (Photo by Morgan Hancock – CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)

“We don’t really know what to expect but it feels like the three quicks are better suited for this wicket,” the Aussie skipper said at Bridgetown’s Kensington Oval on match eve.

“I think it’ll be pretty good wicket with maybe a little bit of spin later on in the game, (but) honestly, I’ve got no idea.”

Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

West Indies XI: Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales



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