Australian cricket's chief of selectors' George Bailey expressed optimism in struggling batter Marnus Labuschagne's ability to contribute positively during the upcoming South African Tests.

Top-order batter Marnus Labuschagne was a notable omission while skipper Mitchell Marsh and fellow opener Travis Head returned to the 17-member Australia squad for the ODI series against Zimbabwe and South Africa beginning later this month.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting also urged the selectors to make decisive changes ahead of October's three-match Test tour to South Africa.

Scrutiny over Australia's top-order batting grew more on Saturday when it failed to inspire another strong start during the second Test match against Bangladesh.

Marnus Labuschagne once averaged over 60 in Tests, but that figure has fallen into the mid-40s over the past two years or so.

Australia were on the backfoot from day one after being bowled out for 198 in their first innings, and with Bangladesh chasing down 57 on day four for a memorable win, the hosts are now 1-0 behind in the two-game series.

Australia vs Bangladesh, 1st Test Day 3 Highlights:Spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz took the key wicket of Steve Smith to reduce Australia to 161-4 after the third day of the first Test in Darwin and move Bangladesh closer to a historic win.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has hit out at the hosts' batters following a dismal day one performance against Bangladesh in the ongoing first Test, adding that their early season rustiness meant they were outplayed and outwitted by the visitors' bowling line-up.

A white dove was released as a peace gesture ahead of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) game, in the aftermath of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

The PSL 2026 opening match saw controversy as Hyderabad Kingsmen's white ball turned pink due to colour transfer from their jersey, a first-time issue noted by Marnus Labuschagne.