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Australia Drop Weatherald and Recall Renshaw After Shock Loss to Bangladesh

Selectors moved quickly to try to steady an unsettled opening partnership, aiming to level the two‑Test series before the Mackay Test.

Australian batsman Jake Weatherald has been axed
Cricket - The Ashes - Australia v England - Fifth Test - Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney, Australia - January 5, 2026 Australia's Jake Weatherald in action REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
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Overview

  • Cricket Australia removed opener Jake Weatherald from the 13‑player Test squad and named Matt Renshaw as his replacement for the second Test in Mackay.
  • The change follows Bangladesh’s nine‑wicket win in Darwin, where Weatherald made 23 and a duck and left his Test average at about 20.36.
  • Renshaw was recalled on the back of strong Sheffield Shield returns and recent white‑ball involvement, and is the likely partner for Travis Head at the top of the order.
  • Marnus Labuschagne kept his place in the side despite ongoing form concerns and coach Andrew McDonald saying the batter needs a big score.
  • Selectors framed the move as an urgent fix before the Mackay Test on August 22, and omitting Weatherald from the touring party could put his spot on the October South Africa tour at risk.