Marnus LabuschagnePrimarily known for his batting, he stepped up with the ball between the 1st ODI England and Australia Thursday (September 19) in Nottingham. Despite being a part-time bowler, Labuschagne’s leg-spin was highly effective as he claimed two crucial wickets in quick succession. His breakthrough came at a critical juncture, knocking out England’s top scorer. Ben Duckettjust as he was approaching a decent century. Labuschagne’s clever variations and ability to get something out of the pitch gave Australia a much-needed change of pace.
Ben Duckett’s heartbreaking sacking at 95
Duket’s dismissal was the turning point of the match. Batting with sincerity and elegance, Duckett built a superb innings, scoring 95 runs off 91 deliveries with 11 fours, setting a solid platform for England at 213/2. Just as Duckett was on the verge of reaching three figures, Labuschagne bowled a short ball outside the off-stump and it stopped on the pitch. In his attempt to drive the ball, Duckett mistimed it and ended up taking a simple spoon to the bowler. Labuschagne took the catch with glee, as Duckett remained in disbelief to record the prize wicket. His dismissal came at a crucial time for England, slowing the run rate and conceding 213/3 in 33 overs.
We present the video:
Duckett gets Duckett for 95 with Labuschagne caught simple and bowled! 😲 pic.twitter.com/OPLeQ075yA
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) September 19, 2024
Also READ: ENG vs AUS 2024, ODI Series: Broadcast & Live Streaming Details – When & Where to Watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & More
The game-changing magic of Marnus Labuschagne
Labuschagne’s shot at Duckett was no fluke. He followed by eliminating Harry Brooke soon reduced England to 232/4. In just two overs, Labuschagne turned the tide of the match, finishing with figures of 2/18. His second wicket, Brook, who played aggressively with 39 runs off 31 balls, was another important scalp that stopped England’s attack. Brook misjudged a pass that was left on the field. Trying to play an aggressive shot, he caught a simple return to Labuschagne, who reacted quickly to catch with his bootstraps.
England batting against Australia
Although Duckett’s departure was a setback, England still had the firepower to push their innings forward. At the time of Labuschagne’s intervention, England had reached 240/4 in 36 overs. Collaborated with Duckett Will Jacks (62 off 56 balls) had earlier taken England to 168/2. Now, with Jamie Smith (9*) and Liam Livingstone (6*) at the crease, the home side will look to regain momentum and post a competitive score of around 350. However, Labuschagne’s key wickets will feel Australia still have a strong chance of restricting England in the final stages. from shots.
