Australia batsman Usman Khawaja has backed Marnus Labuschagne to be in Australia’s squad for the Ashes series, while giving warm support to Matt Renshaw for a potential return to the national side. Labuschagne was not in his best form with the bat for Australia in Tests where he scored 97 runs at an average of 16.16 in four Tests.
The Queensland batter partnered Khawaja during the World Test Championship final but failed to make his mark. Speaking to reporters, Khawaja said that it is the best line-up for Australia will have Labuschagne in it and said he focused on not pushing himself hard in training.
“Our best side has Marnus in him. He brings a lot of energy so hopefully he will come back,” Khawaja said.
“He’s hitting less balls in practice than he ever has before. He’s not hitting balls in the morning before a game. He’s usually been there for an hour, but he’s giving his brain a little more rest.”
“He’s always worked hard but now he’s picking when he’s working hard. He’s growing and understanding he doesn’t need to hit four million balls to be ready. It’s just about finding the balance. I think our best line-up is Marnus three, (Steve) Smith four and (Travis) Head five,” he said ahead of Queensland’s game against New South Wales at the Gabba.
RENSHAW IN THE BEST SPACE
Khawaja said Renshaw is in the best space at the moment to make the Australian team again. The southpaw has been in good form and performed well against India during the recent ODI series against India.
“I know if Renshaw is picked he’s in the best space right now to play again for Australia and be ready to score. Obviously I’m a bit biased because he’s my opening partner and my friend, but he’s been there and done that. He’s scored 184 for Australia.”
“He didn’t do himself any harm the way he played in the last three one-dayers (against India). He handled the pressure really well and looked like he always does when he goes to the next level. You feel like he’s a guy who really belongs at the next level,” Khawaja said.
Renshaw last played for Australia in Tests during the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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Published on:
October 27, 2025
