Third Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 between India and Australiaset to open The Gabba in BrisbaneIt promises to be a high-stakes encounter with the series level at 1-1. Outside of the competition on the field, the tension between Marnus Labuschagne and David Warner took center stage.
David Warner challenges Marnus Labuschagne’s technique
Warner raised concerns about Labuschagne’s dismissal at gully, particularly during the first innings of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Speaking to Fox Cricket, Warner expressed doubts about Labuschagne’s technical approach, suggesting that his dismissal was a recurring pattern when he was 50 or over. Warner’s comments suggested a level of skepticism about Labuschagne’s ability to adapt and maintain consistency at the highest level.
“I’m still not satisfied with Marnus. I don’t think it was anywhere near what we knew he was capable of. He might have had a few in the middle, he got a few freebies, he batted well to get through the night, but they batted poorly. So in that respect, he had the best conditions to go out and fight. But the way he always does when he gets over 50, he hits it straight down the gully.” Warner said.
Labuschagne defends with conviction and facts
Labuschagne wasted no time responding to Warner’s criticism, highlighting his composure and statistical support. In an interview with News Corp, Labuschagne responded: “I’d like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught in the creek, because I seem to be out there every week”
Labuschagne disputed the validity of Warner’s criticism, pointing out that he had only been dismissed twice in his career in the valley. He further explained that the dismissal in Adelaide was the result of an unusual slip delivery rather than a technical fault that needed to be rectified immediately.
“I look back and I think I only remember being caught in the creek twice. So I may have to look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment. But as I said, everyone is here to write newspapers and articles.” Labuschagne was effectively skeptical of Warner’s assessment.
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Labuschagne’s main role at the Gabba
Despite the criticism, Labuschagne’s 126 off 64 runs during the second Test proved to be a vital anchor for Australia’s innings. As Australia enter the crucial third Test at the Gabba, his role as a permanent presence at No.3 has become even more critical. Known for its fast conditions, the Gabba will once again review Labuschagne’s technique. With the series level at 1-1, Labuschagne will look to build on his Adelaide innings and prove his critics wrong with a match-defining performance in Brisbane.
The tough conditions at the Gabba – offering help to pace bowlers – will once again test Labuschagne’s technique, especially against sears like him. Muhammad Siraj and jasprit bumrah. His ability to perform in these conditions could determine Australia’s chances of gaining an edge in this tightly contested series.
