Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne registered a century in the nation’s preparatory fixture before a three-Test series against South Africa, marking a potentially significant moment for the batter ahead of international competition.
Labuschagne compiled 111 runs from 89 deliveries against a Cricket South Africa Invitation XI in Potchefstroom, reaching three figures from 76 balls with 19 fours before retiring out. The performance comes at a notable juncture, as the 32-year-old has not scored a Test century in over three years, spanning 43 innings. His recent domestic campaign included scores of one, 31, and four during a 1-1 series draw against Bangladesh, prompting commentary from former Australian captain Ricky Ponting regarding his place in the lineup. Despite such scrutiny, Australia’s selectors have retained him in the squad for his customary No. 3 position.
The warm-up match saw several Australian batsmen contribute to the team’s total of 368-6 in response to the hosts’ 318-7. Steve Smith retired out after scoring in the double digits, while Matt Renshaw added 32 and Alex Carey contributed 57. The tune-up also featured Australia utilizing 11 bowlers across the opening day, with each taking at least one wicket as part of workload management protocols.
All-rounder Cameron Green remained unavailable due to an abdominal injury sustained in recent one-day cricket and faces uncertainty for the opening Test. The series will commence in Durban this week, with subsequent fixtures scheduled for October 18 in Gqeberha and October 27 in Cape Town. This marks Australia’s first Test series in South Africa since 2018.
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