Australia will look to redeem themselves in the second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay from Saturday, August 22, after losing the opening Test at Darwin by nine wickets. The team is playing to avoid a series whitewash, and the selection decisions made for the upcoming match have drawn sharp criticism from former Australian captain Ian Chappell.
Chappell has expressed serious concerns about the Australian selection panel's approach to team building and their ability to address the problems they have created. Chappell stated that the selectors have demonstrated a lack of understanding in their decision-making process.
"If you pick the wrong people in the first place, you can get into trouble. With their selections, they have shown to me that they do not understand things very well," Chappell said while speaking to nine.com.au.
"To me, it is the selectors who've got themselves into this problem. Now they have got to try and find a way out," he continued.
Changes needed to the batting lineup
Chappell has called for specific changes to the batting lineup following the Darwin loss. Jake Weatherald has been removed from the squad for the second Test, and Chappell wants Sam Konstas recalled to the side after the youngster was dropped following the West Indies tour. Chappell also recommends that Steve Smith move to number three in the batting order, with Marnus Labuschagne being dropped from that position.
Labuschagne's recent form has been a concern. His last Test century came during the 2023 Ashes tour against England. Since then, across 42 innings, Labuschagne has averaged 25.23 with 959 runs, nine fifties and a best score of 90. Chappell has also criticised the decision to bat seam-bowling all-rounder Beau Webster at number seven despite his strong first-class record.
"He is there to make centuries, and you are batting him at seven. What is that? That is bulls**t," Chappell said.
Chappell has also questioned the readiness of emerging players selected for the squad. Campbell Kellaway, 23, averages 31.52 after 44 first-class matches, while Oliver Peake, 19, averages 26 after 14 first-class matches. Chappell expressed doubt about whether these players are prepared for Test cricket at this stage.
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If Australia do not secure a win in the second Test, it will not only mean they lose the series but also cost them crucial World Test Championship (WTC) points. The Pat Cummins-led side is still at the top of the standings, but South Africa and New Zealand are breathing down their neck.