Australia have made a significant selection decision ahead of their upcoming home Test series against New Zealand, with Marnus Labuschagne set to miss the entire four-match contest following a prolonged dip in form.
Chairman of selectors George Bailey confirmed on Monday, November 9, that Labuschagne will not be considered for selection for the series, which begins in Perth on December 9.
The decision comes after a disappointing run for the right-handed batter during Australia's recent Test tour of South Africa. Labuschagne managed just 131 runs across six innings, with scores of 0, 4, 14, 39, 37 and 37. His struggles have extended over a longer period, with his last Test century coming during the 2023 Ashes.
Once ranked the world's No. 1 Test batter, Labuschagne has experienced a significant decline in form. His absence will leave Australia looking for a new option at No. 3 as they prepare for the challenging series against the Black Caps.
Bailey said the decision would give Labuschagne some space away from the selection speculation while allowing him to concentrate on domestic cricket. The batter is expected to return to Queensland and lead the side in the Sheffield Shield.
However, Australia's selectors have not closed the door on his international career. Bailey indicated that Labuschagne could still earn a recall for future assignments, including next year's tours of India and England, if his performances improve.
Australia's Test squad for the New Zealand series is expected to be announced after the next round of Sheffield Shield matches.
Australia vs New Zealand Test Series 2026-27: Full Schedule
1st Test
Date: December 9–13, 2026
Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth
Start: 1:20 PM AEDT
2nd Test
Date: December 17–21, 2026
Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Start: 11:30 AM AEDT
3rd Test – Boxing Day Test
Date: December 26–30, 2026
Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
Start: 10:30 AM AEDT
4th Test
Date: January 4–8, 2027
Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
Start: 10:30 AM AEDT
The four-match series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. With Labuschagne unavailable, attention will now turn to the players competing for Australia's vacant top-order position.
