Greg Chappell, a distinguished former captain of the Australian cricket team, has voiced sharp criticism of the selectors’ strategy for the first Ashes Test, particularly concerning the opening batting position. The decision to likely have Marnus Labuschagne open, in the absence of Sam Konstas and with an uncapped specialist in Jake Weatherald, has drawn Chappell’s strong disapproval.
Chappell, in a piece for ESPNcricinfo, articulated his concerns about the potential ripple effects of this selection decision. He suggested that the selectors are prioritizing a perceived optimal team balance, which involves playing Labuschagne as an opener, to accommodate Cameron Green and Beau Webster. This is especially relevant given Green’s recent recovery from back surgery and his limited bowling output. “This will allow Cameron Green and Beau Webster to play, giving the best balance of batting and bowling in the squad,” Chappell explained.
However, Chappell strongly advocates for Labuschagne to bat at his established and successful No. 3 position. “Opening with Labuschagne is extremely risky. He should bat at three, as that is his specialist spot, where he has delivered prolifically,” he stated. He interprets the selectors’ apparent willingness to use Labuschagne as an opener as an indication of a lack of faith in genuine specialist openers and concerns about the bowling fitness of Green and Webster.
Chappell drew upon the legacies of Australian batting greats Ian Chappell and Ricky Ponting, both of whom carved out stellar careers at No. 3. He emphasized the subtle but crucial differences in the mental preparation and approach required for opening an innings compared to batting at number three, even if the latter often involves facing the new ball early.
Reflecting on Labuschagne’s recent batting form, Chappell noted his return to a more attacking mindset this summer. He cautioned against a ‘risk-averse’ batting approach, explaining that such a mindset can paradoxically lead to dismissals. “This risk-averse attitude to batting actually increases the risk of getting out,” Chappell commented, expressing concern that batting Labuschagne out of his preferred position could negatively impact his current strong run of form.