Marnus Labuschagne: Proteas will be a 'good challenge' for Australia

The match will mark the culmination of the third WTC cycle, with Australia aiming to repeat their 2023 triumph over India, which saw them win the final by 209 runs at The Oval.

South Africa, who last played Australia in a Test series during the 2022-23 summer - a 2-0 victory for the hosts - now stand between the reigning champions and a second consecutive title.

"South Africa have been a very good team in this cycle," Labuschagne said. "On paper it's a well-balanced side, and they have some really nice players. It will be a good challenge for us."

The match carries additional significance for Labuschagne, who was born in Klerksdorp, South Africa, before moving to Australia as a child. The 30-year-old also returns to the ground where he made his name in 2019 as Test cricket's first concussion substitute during the Ashes.

Now an established part of Australia's top order, Labuschagne has faced a dip in form during this WTC cycle, averaging 28.33 with one century. Despite that, he contributed key innings against India over the summer and has spent recent months preparing in the UK with Glamorgan in the County Championship.

"I love playing with the guys here," Labuschagne said. "The long-term relationship with the club gives me the chance to get valuable match practice."

Several Australian players are using county cricket to prepare for the WTC Final. All-rounder Cameron Green has been among the runs for Gloucestershire following his return from injury, while Beau Webster has impressed at Warwickshire.

Labuschagne noted the importance of game time ahead of a high-stakes, one-off final. "You're in that competitive mindset, and you get yourself in that headspace again," he said. "I personally prefer to get a bit of preparation time in before a big game like this."

Green's return to form has presented Australian selectors with a selection puzzle, with potential changes to the batting order. Labuschagne may be moved up the order, while teenage opener Sam Konstas, who made headlines with a half-century on debut last year, is also part of the squad.

"He's a very talented player," Labuschagne said of Konstas. "We haven't seen the best of him yet, but he's someone we're investing in."

The WTC Final will be played at Lord's, one of the sport's most iconic venues. Labuschagne acknowledged the significance of the event and the venue: "Playing at Lord's is always special. It's going to be an awesome week and another great match."

Labuschagne also praised the impact of the WTC on the global Test landscape. "It means every Test you play has something on it," he said. "I think it's worked great. From a player's perspective, the game is in a great place."

Australia will be seeking to cement their dominance in red-ball cricket, while South Africa will look to claim their first WTC title in what promises to be a tightly contested clash.

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