WTC Final: Steve Smith-Micthell Starc looks brilliant, Australia begins preparation with 3-hour long training session

Australia conducted their first training session ahead of the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's, starting from June 11. With almost a full squad, Pat Cummins and his boys worked hard for over a 3-hour practice drill.

Josh Hazlewood and Josh Inglis, who had been involved in the IPL 2025 final, have yet to join the squad, and Travis Head is with the squad but was spotted sitting out Wednesday's session. Steve Smith, as always, looked in fine touch in the English conditions with extra movement and pace. Marnus Labuschagne also looked focused and ready to go.

Pat Cummins, the captain of the team, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland had a nice day too. Keeper Alex Carey had to show his reflex as the ball was moving and getting extra bounce from the towering pacers. National selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide kept a sharp eye over the training session.

Read More: Star pacer recalled in squad ahead of India series

What will be the opening pair for Australia?

The Australia team management needs to solve a puzzle: who to elect as the opener with veteran Usman Khawaja? They have options like Marnus Labuschagne and Sam Konstas as the ready-to-go openers, but who will be the other opener along with Khawaja? That's a question Australia has to solve. 

If they want experience and stability, then Labuschagne undoubtedly fits the position. But if the team seeks an X-factor, then Konstas can be the man. So, along with trainings, the management has to figure out their ultimate tactics as well. 

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Beau Webster. 

Traveling reserve: Brendan Doggett