Marnus Labuschagne's poor form has raised fresh questions about his place in Australia’s batting lineup.

Once regarded as one of Australia’s most dependable Test batters, Labuschagne has struggled to maintain the consistency that established his reputation.

Marnus Labuschagne’s latest failure against Simon Harmer on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test against South Africa has raised fresh questions about his place in Australia’s batting lineup. With a crucial four-match home Test series against New Zealand scheduled to begin on December 9, the selectors face an important decision regarding the struggling number three.

Once regarded as one of Australia’s most dependable Test batters, Labuschagne has struggled to maintain the consistency that established his reputation. His prolonged dip in form has become a growing concern, particularly with the team needing a reliable top order for the challenges ahead. Here are some reasons why Australia should consider dropping Labuschagne from the Test side.

3 reasons why Marnus Labuschagne should be dropped from Australia Test squad

1. An extended century drought and declining form

Labuschagne’s biggest concern is his inability to convert starts into substantial scores. Going more than 40 Test innings without a century, dating back to mid-2023, highlights the extent of his struggles. His batting average over the past three years has also fallen below the level expected of a specialist number three.

His recent performances have exposed vulnerabilities against both quality fast bowling and spin. Frequent adjustments to his technique appear to have complicated his approach at the crease, making it difficult for him to settle into a consistent rhythm.

For a batter occupying such an important position, Australia need someone who can withstand early pressure and build substantial innings. Labuschagne’s past achievements remain significant, but his current performances must carry greater weight when the selectors assess his future.

2. Failure to turn promising starts into meaningful contributions

Another issue with Labuschagne’s batting is his inability to make promising starts count. Even when he survives the initial examination from the bowlers, he has struggled to progress beyond modest scores and establish himself at the crease.

His cautious approach can sometimes slow Australia’s scoring rate without delivering the substantial innings needed to justify that patience. While a number three batter is not always expected to score quickly, the role demands the ability to absorb pressure before shifting momentum in the team’s favour.

Labuschagne’s recent struggles have raised doubts about whether he can still deliver those match-defining contributions. His inability to produce regular centuries or valuable half-centuries puts additional pressure on the middle order, which must frequently recover from early setbacks.

3. Making room for in-form domestic batters

Australia must also consider the long-term implications of continuing with an out-of-form senior player. With the team needing to prepare for its future, backing emerging domestic performers could provide a valuable opportunity to strengthen the batting lineup.

Persisting with Labuschagne despite his prolonged struggles risks delaying the development of potential replacements who have earned consideration through consistent performances at the domestic level.

Dropping him would not necessarily mean the end of his international career. Instead, a temporary spell away from the Test setup could allow him to work on his technique, regain confidence and rebuild his scoring consistency.

For the selectors, the challenge is to balance experience with current form. If Labuschagne cannot demonstrate meaningful improvement before the New Zealand series, giving another batter an opportunity could be the right decision for Australia’s immediate results and long-term plans.