Australia has made a sensational decision ahead of the World Test Championship final at Lord's, elevating Marnus Labuschagne to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja - a First in his Test career. Traditionally a middle-order mainstay, Labuschagne is stepping into this new challenge after selectors opted out of debutant Sam Konstas, emphasizing the value of experience over experimentation.

Captain Pat Cummins publicly backed the move, acknowledging Labuschagne's vital contributions throughout the WTC cycle despite recent form dips. However, criticism looms on the horizon: South Africa's pace duo, led by Kagiso Rabada, view swinging conditions at Lord’s as a massive test for the reshuffled top order .

The decision underscores Australia's unwavering loyalty to its seasoned batters amid calls for reinvention. Labuschagne’s technique and temperament will be under intense scrutiny - can he stabilize a tricky start, or will this experiment backfire? All eyes are now on the opening session at Lord's to see if this bold call pays off.