But Ponting expects Australia to put their faith in Labuschagne, citing the path selectors took with former opener David Warner prior to the last World Test Championship Final may be replicated once again.
“I actually think that that will go with Labuschagne,” Ponting said.
“Looking back to the last World Test Championship Final there was some talk about David Warner and whether he should hold his spot going into that.
“And there was a bit of talk around the team about wanting to get through that period or that phase or if you like, with the same group of players and give them the chance to, to be able to play off in that one-off final.
“Labuschagne has been through this cycle with the team, albeit batting at No.3 and I think they will want to get through the cycle with the same players so I think Labuschagne will get the nod.
“Whether I agree with it or not, it’s a different thing…all will be revealed in the next couple of weeks.”
Ricky Ponting’s predicted Australia XI for World Test Championship Final: 1. Usman Khawaja, 2. Marnus Labuschagne, 3. Cameron Green, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Travis Head, 6. Beau Webster, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Pat Cummins (c), 9. Mitchell Starc, 10. Nathan Lyon, 11. Josh Hazlewood.
