Marnus Labuschagne facing Australia Test axe after South Africa series failure, says coach McDonald

Australia's Test batting mainstay Marnus Labuschagne could be dropped after a disappointing tour of South Africa, where the visitors lost the series 2-1. Head coach Andrew McDonald delivered a blunt assessment: "He hasn't taken his opportunity on this tour." Labuschagne, once ranked the world's No.1 Test batter, struggled for consistency across the three matches, managing only one half-century and averaging under 25. His technical issues against the moving ball were repeatedly exposed by the South African pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. With Australia's next Test assignment being a home Ashes series, selectors face a tough call: persist with a proven performer or blood a younger option like Cameron Green or Teague Wyllie. McDonald's comments suggest patience is wearing thin, and Labuschagne's spot is no longer guaranteed. The 30-year-old now faces a race to rediscover form in domestic cricket before the Ashes squad is named.