Australia retain Marnus Labuschagne for South Africa Test series

Australia have retained under-fire batter Marnus Labuschagne in the 16-player squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The squad also includes Cooper Connolly, Michael Neser and Matthew Kuhnemann. Labuschagne has come under pressure after a lean run of form in recent series.

The series returns to South Africa for the first time since the 2018 ball-tampering scandal. Labuschagne will bat at number three on the tour that begins later this month. Selectors have backed the batter to regain form on the away assignment.

The 16-player squad was confirmed on Monday. The tour schedule includes three Tests.