Steve Smith ruled out of first West Indies Test, Marnus Labushagne dropped

Steve Smith will miss the opening match of the three-Test Series against the West Indies on the Qantas Tour of the West Indies.

Smith has been ruled out with the finger injury sustained in the World Test Championship against South Africa. He is still in the running to play the second match.

Chair of Selectors George Bailey said Josh Inglis and Sam Konstas would come into the XI for the opening match in place of Smith and Marnus Labuschagne.

“Steve needs more time for the wound to heal so we’ll give him another week’s rest and assess his functionality after that. 

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“We have made the decision to give Josh and Sam the opportunity to replace Steve and Marnus. We are excited to see them get the chance to further their fledgling Test careers. 

“In his only opportunity in Test cricket to date, Josh was outstanding in Sri Lanka, showing great intent and ability to put pressure on the opposition.

“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects. 

“We will continue working with him on the areas of his game we feel he needs to rediscover. We continue to value his skill and expect him to work through the challenge positively.”

The batting order and final XI will be determined closer to the game.