Head says new-look Australia can cope without Smith, Labuschagne

Sydney: Travis Head said Monday Australia were experienced enough to cope as they prepare for their first Test without Steve Smith or Marnus Labuschag...

Sydney: Travis Head said Monday Australia were experienced enough to cope as they prepare for their first Test without Steve Smith or Marnus Labuschagne since 2018.

An out-of-form Labuschagne has been dropped for the opening Test against the West Indies in Barbados this week, while fellow batting stalwart Smith is nursing an injured finger.

Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis, who have only played two Tests each, compared to the combined 175 of Smith and Labuschagne, replace them.

But Head said he was not concerned.

"They (Smith and Labuschagne) are still around the squad, so it still feels similar at the moment in the build-up," he told reporters in the West Indies.