Australia has officially announced its One Day International (ODI) squad for the upcoming tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, with a significant change in personnel. Notably, Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped from the squad following a series of disappointing performances. The Australian selectors have opted for a mix of experienced players and fresh talent as they prepare for these international fixtures.
Labuschagne's recent form has been under scrutiny, particularly after his struggles during the tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh in June. Although he managed to score an unbeaten 55 in the second ODI against Bangladesh, this was his first fifty in the format since January 2025. Over the past year, he has averaged just 20.20 in 11 ODI innings, raising concerns about his consistency and performance level.
His difficulties in the ODI format reflect a broader trend in his cricketing career, as he has also faced challenges in Test matches. Since the beginning of last year, Labuschagne has averaged 21.77 in 20 Test innings, with only two fifties to his name. Despite his omission from the ODI squad, it is important to note that this decision does not necessarily impact his chances in the Test side. The Australian Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa is set to be announced next week, with selectors indicating that decisions for the two formats are made independently.
In Labuschagne's absence, the selectors have called up several players, including Joel Davies and Ollie Peake, both of whom are looking to make their mark on the international stage. Davies, a New South Wales allrounder, impressed during the T20I series against Bangladesh earlier this year, where he recorded impressive figures of 3-17 on debut. Meanwhile, Peake, who had limited success in his previous outings, has been retained for further opportunities, as selectors see potential in his abilities.
Additionally, Cooper Connolly has also been included in the squad after a standout performance against Bangladesh, where he scored 149 runs. Connolly had previously made headlines by becoming the youngest Australian to achieve an ODI five-wicket haul, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
The leadership structure for the upcoming series has also been clarified. While Pat Cummins remains the official ODI captain, Mitchell Marsh will take charge during the Zimbabwe leg of the tour. Cummins is expected to join the squad for the South Africa matches, where the two will share captaincy duties depending on how many games Cummins participates in.
The ODI matches against Zimbabwe are scheduled to take place in Harare on September 15, 18, and 20, followed by a series of matches in South Africa starting on September 24. The Australian squad for this tour includes a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, reflecting the team's strategy to balance experience with youth as they aim for success on the international stage.
The full ODI squad for the tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa is as follows: Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins (South Africa only), Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Mitchell Marsh, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Billy Stanlake, and Mitchell Starc (South Africa only), along with Adam Zampa.
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