‘Never seen that before’: Brutal axing leaves Aussie great stunned as Marnus reality laid bare

Matt Renshaw’s abrupt call-up to face Bangladesh in Mackay will be the ‘last roll of the dice’ for the Queenslander to resurrect his Test career, according to former Australian great Brendon Julian. The pressure on Marnus Labuschagne has increased substantially after selectors axed Jake Weatherald mid-series following his pair of failures. Julian believes Renshaw’s recall is a last chance to secure his Test spot, having been dropped three times before. He argues that selectors should give Renshaw a good run, ideally four Test matches before the South African series, to prove his consistency. Julian also suggests that Nathan McSweeney could follow Renshaw into the team if Marnus Labuschagne fails to perform in Mackay. Weatherald’s dismissal leaves Labuschagne nervously watching his spot. Julian dismisses suggestions that Pat Cummins erred in batting first in Darwin, citing Bangladesh’s bowling challenges and the pitch conditions. He believes Australia will face tough conditions in Mackay, requiring strategic play to secure a result. The selectors’ decision to drop Weatherald after just one Test match has surprised Julian, who argues that a second Test was warranted. The move has opened opportunities for Renshaw, who has shown potential as a specialist opener, while also raising concerns about Labuschagne’s long-term future in the team.