Marcus Harris Stakes Claim for WTC Final with Century at Lord's

Australian opener Marcus Harris has given national selectors a timely reminder of his red-ball credentials with a sublime knock of 138 runs for Lancashire in their County Championship 2025 match against Middlesex at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. With the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 just around the corner, Harris’s dominant performance adds pressure on selectors to consider him for the high-stakes clash.

A Statement Century in Testing Conditions

Facing a disciplined Middlesex bowling attack on a lively Lord's pitch, Harris showed maturity and technical brilliance. His 138-run innings came off 217 balls, laced with 19 crisp boundaries. Harris displayed excellent temperament and shot selection, particularly against the new ball, making this one of his most impressive innings in recent years.

This century is not just significant for Lancashire but could play a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s squad for the WTC Final, scheduled later this year. With David Warner retired and a spot potentially opening up at the top, Harris has made his case loud and clear.

Consistency Pays Off

Harris, who has been a regular performer in Australia’s domestic Sheffield Shield competition, has often found himself on the fringes of the national side. Despite featuring in 14 Tests for Australia, he has struggled to cement a permanent place in the team, often losing out to more established openers.

However, his recent form, both in domestic cricket and now in the English county season, suggests a newfound consistency. Since joining Lancashire, Harris has adapted to English conditions beautifully, which could be invaluable given that the WTC Final is set to be played in England, possibly at The Oval or Lord’s.

What It Means for the Australian Team

Australia’s Test squad is packed with talent, but opening partnerships remain a point of discussion. With Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith holding firm in the middle order, the selectors are looking for stability and form at the top.

Marcus Harris’s hundred could not have come at a better time. The selectors, led by George Bailey, will be watching his performances closely in the lead-up to the squad announcement for the WTC Final 2025. If Harris continues this form, he could be lining up alongside Khawaja or even become a key part of Australia’s Ashes plans later this year.

Praise from the Cricketing Community

Following his innings, Harris received praise from fans and pundits alike. Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden tweeted:

"Solid, composed, and classy. Marcus Harris is making a strong case — this is the kind of grit we need at the top in red-ball cricket."

Lancashire’s head coach also lauded Harris for his professionalism and hunger to prove a point.

“He’s been incredible around the group — always focused, always working on his game. That innings was special, and we’re proud to have him.”

WTC Final: A Golden Opportunity

Australia has already secured its place in the WTC Final 2025, thanks to a dominant Test season. With the final being one of the most prestigious fixtures on the international calendar, selection will come down to form, fitness, and match-readiness — all of which Harris currently ticks.

Moreover, having experience in English conditions adds weight to his selection. Harris’s County Championship stint could be the defining factor, especially if other contenders are short on red-ball match practice.

Looking Ahead

Marcus Harris is expected to play a few more matches for Lancashire before the final squad for the WTC Final is announced. If he continues his current form, the Australian selectors will find it hard to overlook his name.

With a technically sound game and the ability to adapt, Harris might just be the opener Australia needs to tackle a strong opponent in the WTC Final. It’s not just about the runs — it’s the timing and setting that make this knock one of the most important in Harris’s career.