Khawaja: ‘Our best team has Marnus at three’

Khawaja: ‘Our Best Team Has Marnus at Three’

Usman Khawaja has emphasized his preference for Marnus Labuschagne to bat at No. 3 in the Australian Test lineup. This comes as Jake Weatherald's chance to debut in Perth becomes more likely.

Following criticism from Australian cricket legend Steve Waugh, who suggested that players had too much influence over selections, Khawaja insisted that Labuschagne should bat at first drop in the upcoming Perth Test. Selection chairman George Bailey has yet to confirm Labuschagne's exact position.

Implications for the Team

If Labuschagne takes the No. 3 spot, Khawaja would likely open alongside Jake Weatherald.
This arrangement would push Cameron Green down to No. 6 and exclude Beau Webster from the playing XI.
Alternatively, Green could remain at No. 3, with Khawaja opening with Labuschagne and Webster retaining his spot.

Green will have the opportunity to prove his fitness as the primary all-rounder in the Sheffield Shield for Western Australia against Queensland next week.

Khawaja's Statement

“I think our best team is always with Marnus scoring runs at three,” Khawaja told Fox Cricket during the innings break of the Twenty20 match between Australia and India on the Gold Coast. “Marnus three, (Steve) Smith four, (Travis) Head five."

Selectors face critical decisions ahead of the Ashes, with debate continuing over the batting order and player roles.

Author's summary: Usman Khawaja strongly supports Marnus Labuschagne at No. 3, influencing team structure amid upcoming selection decisions for the Perth Test.

news.com.au — 2025-11-07