Veteran Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped from the Test side for the series against New Zealand that begins in December. The move comes after the batter struggled to score runs and hasn’t been able to notch up a Test century in the last three years.

The 32-year-old has promised to make a terrific return to the side after losing his spot.

“As a cricketer, you use this as a chance to step back from all the scrutiny.”

This is not the first time that the batter has been excluded. He was also removed from the side after the WTC final in 2025. Marnus was recalled to the side, but his form didn’t show any signs of improvement. He managed to score just 131 runs from three matches during the recent South African tour.

Theveteran star said that he intends to head back to domestic cricket and pile on the runs for Queensland.

“I want to take my chance and go back to playing for Queensland. I want to enjoy the time and hope to win games for the side. I want to score runs, enjoy my time, and the road back to the Australian team will work itself out,” he added.

“I have done it in the past, and there’s no doubt that I will get back to the team. The only question is when. That’s something no one knows, but there are dreams and aspirations. Right now, my focus is on Queensland and leading the.”

In 68 Tests, he has scored over 4861 runs at an average of 42, with 11 centuries and 25 fifties. He has also picked up 15 wickets.

What did Australian selectors say about Marnus’ omission?

Former Australian captain and current selection committee chief George Bailey didn’t close the door on the batter’s return to the side. Bailey was quoted by Cricket.co.au as saying, “A return is still possible. We all know how good and how effective Marnus can be.

But that performance hasn’t been there. I think he’s missed some opportunities, some promising starts in Darwin. Even in South Africa, he failed to get going. But I don’t think we’ve ever ruled out anyone permanently.”