Marnus Labuschagne out, Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas in for first Test against the West Indies

Marnus Labuschagne’s Test career is at the crossroads after selectors made a big call a week out from the first Test in the West Indies.

Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped for the opening Test in the West Indies, with Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas coming in to also cover the injured Steve Smith.

Australian selection chief George Bailey made the call almost a week out from Wednesday’s first Test in Barbados, declaring Labuschagne’s “output” hasn’t been at the required level, coming after his failure as an opener in the World Test Championship.

Smith injured his finger in the loss at Lord’s but is expected to return during the three-match series.

“Steve needs more time for the wound to heal, so we’ll give him another week’s rest and assess his functionality after that,” Bailey said.

“We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers.

“In his only opportunity in Test cricket to date, Josh was outstanding in Sri Lanka, showing great intent and ability to put pressure on the opposition.

Marnus Labuschagne has been axed. Picture: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects.

“We will continue working with him on the areas of his game we feel he needs to rediscover.

“We continue to value his skill and expect him to work through the challenge positively.”

Labuschagne was moved to the top of the order against South Africa but made just 17 and 22 before falling caught behind to Marco Jansen in both innings.

The 30-year-old, who was formally the No.1 Test batter in the world, hasn’t made a Test hundred since the 2023 Ashes.

Smith suffered a compound dislocation in his finger at Lord’s and while he avoided surgery and travelled with the squad to Caribbean, he needs to keep his finger in a splint for up to eight weeks.

He could play in the second Test in Grenada beginning on July 3, pending his ability to bat while wearing a splint.

Originally published as Marnus Labuschagne out, Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas in for first Test against the West Indies