Labuschagne facing axe as training photo hints at major Test overhaul
Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne is at risk of being dropped from the Test team for the upcoming series decider in South Africa. Reports indicate he was excluded from standard training drills, fueling speculation about a major lineup overhaul.
Why it matters
High-profile roster changes in international cricket significantly impact team performance and fan expectations during critical series deciders.
- 10.00pm . First published at 8.43pm
shares Share article There is growing speculation Marnus Labuschagne will be dropped for the Test series decider in South Africa .
Journalists covering the tour on the ground noted the under-fire No.3 did not play his usual part in a training session on Sunday night (AEDT).
Marnus Labuschagne did not bat as usual. Bharat Sundaresan
Labuschagne, 32, was instead “locked in lengthy discussions with (coach) Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith ”, according to reporter Ben Cameron.
Respected journalist Bharat Sundaresan noted “this was his routine in the Caribbean last year”.
The implication is Labuschagne was last dropped from the Test team during last year’s series against the West Indies.
He was axed in favour of Australia experimenting with Cameron Green batting at No.3, with Sam Konstas opening alongside Usman Khawaja.
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