When Marnus Labuschagne was churning out runs a few years ago, he was often referred to as a “lucky” batter largely in relation to being given chances that he was able to take advantage of. Now it feels like Marnus Labuschagne, who has been ever present since coming in as Smith’s concussion sub at Lord’s in 2019, is on borrowed time. However, in a twist of fate, could another Smith injury give him one final chance to extend his immediate career?
Usman Khawaja has been backed to be part of the Ashes later this year but Marnus Labuschagne’s spot is becoming increasingly uncertain with Sam Konstas firming for a Test recall in West Indies following Australia’s World Test Championship (WTC) final defeat at Lord’s.
There is a chance that Steven Smith’s finger injury could provide an opening for Marnus Labuschagne to cling onto his spot, after Marnus Labuschagne earned a show of faith at Lord’s partly because he had been ever-present in the WTC cycle, but the point has been reached where even that may not save him.
The selectors will decide in the next 48 hours whether batting reinforcements need to be added to the squad once there is further clarity over Smith’s prognosis, but regardless it’s difficult to see a scenario where 19-year-old Konstas doesn’t return at the top of the order.
Australia’s batting order flops in WTC Finals including Marnus Labuschagne
Heading into the ICC World Test Championship Final against South Africa, Australia were favorites, mainly because of their glittering ICC record and a legendary bowling unit consisting of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. Australia’s batting unit also had the champion pedigree with a plethora of experienced and game-changing batters present, but all of them failed miserably in the ICC World Test Championship Final.
In the first innings, Usman Khawaja (0), Marnus Labuschagne (17), Cameron Green (4), Travis Head (11), and Alex Carey (23) failed, while Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72) were the only good performers as Australia got bowled out for 212.
In the second innings, Usman Khawaja (6), Marnus Labuschagne (22), Cameron Green (0), Steve Smith (13), Travis Head (9), and Beau Webster (9) failed miserably. Pacer Mitchell Starc (58*) made an amazing contribution with the bat while wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey scored 43 runs to take Australia to 207 runs.
Australia gave South Africa a 282-run target, which they easily chased down with 5 wickets in hand to win the WTC Final. Following Australia’s defeat, the likes of Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne are under scrutiny, and their place in the team might be in danger. Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald has backed Marnus Labuschagne to get into the Ashes squad despite a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final performance.
An out-of-form Marnus Labuschagne was 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. Dropped in West Indies, Australia’s long-time No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne has switched his focus on what he can do to be playing the Ashes.
I thrive on proving doubters wrong- Marnus Labuschagne
Marnus Labuschagne says he is willing to open the innings for Australia if that is what it takes to earn a place in the upcoming Ashes series. The 30-year-old batter, who has been a fixture in the Test side since 2019, was recently dropped for the first time during the series against the West Indies.
Marnus Labuschagne has since taken time to reflect on his form and approach, working closely with coaches at home rather than playing county cricket or representing Australia A.
“This (being left out) has allowed me to reflect and not have the pressure of the media saying, ‘Marnus has got to go’,” Marnus Labuschagne told News Corp in his first interview since losing his spot, as reported by ESPNCricinfo.
“I mean, that’s part of the game. There is a tipping point, but it’s something I thrive on — proving the doubters wrong and being able to find a way. Missing those West Indies Tests gave me the chance to think, ‘This is where I want to be and this is how I’m going to get there’.”
The Queenslander Marnus Labuschagne emphasised that he still has the hunger and determination to succeed, particularly in one of cricket’s most iconic series. Marnus Labuschagne acknowledged that selection is not in his hands and said he is prepared to take on any role for the team — even one outside his usual position.
“I’d be happy to do that — I’d love to,” he said of potentially opening the batting. “
“If opener is where I need to bat to be playing in the Test team, that’s fine. I’ve batted at number three my whole career, but at this stage you don’t get a choice. I opened in the World Test Championship final and felt I batted quite well. I got in but did not go on with it.”
His comments come as Australia debates its opening combination. Sam Konstas, who opened during the West Indies series, has shown technical vulnerabilities, prompting discussion over whether he should retain his place or make way for a more experienced option. Marnus Labuschagne’s willingness to adapt could put him firmly back in the selectors’ plans ahead of the Ashes.
Marnus Labuschagne will make his return to the national side during the three ODI matches against South Africa this month. After concluding the series, he will then shift his focus to the Sheffield Shield, with an aim to impress the selectors to earn a recall for the much-anticipated five-match Test series against England. The Ashes is scheduled to kick off in Perth from November 21.
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