Australia includes Marnus Labuschagne in 16-man Test squad for South Africa

Cricket Australia announced a 16-man squad on September 7, 2026, for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Marnus Labuschagne retained his position despite recent low scoring totals, including 36 runs across three innings in a recent series against Bangladesh. The squad features three new inclusions: all-rounder Cooper Connolly, spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, and bowler Michael Neser. The series is scheduled to begin with the first Test in Durban on October 9, followed by matches in Gqeberha and Cape Town. Labuschagne has averaged 29.69 runs since 2023, a period marked by his removal from the ODI side during a previous tour. Selectors opted to maintain consistency in the batting order, keeping the unit that recently drew a series with Bangladesh.

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