Batter Marnus Labuschagne is still a key part of Australia's future in test cricket despite failing to impress in their five-wicket defeat to South Africa in the World Test Championship final, coach Andrew McDonald said.

Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, has voiced his support for Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne despite their recent struggles, particularly after the WTC final loss. McDonald emphasized Labuschagne's potential and Khawaja's stability at the top,

Australia left-armer Mitchell Starc, who took three of South Africa's five second-innings wickets, told cricket.com.au they tried almost everything with the ball to dislodge the South African opener as he took full advantage of the best batting conditions in the second half of the match.