Marnus Labuschagne’s absence from the Australian Test team for the West Indies series has raised questions about his spot in the Ashes squad. Talk in the Australian press and among former players suggests his poor form could cost him his spot. But his teammate Steve Smith has given him a vote of confidence.
Smith dismissed the concerns about Labuschagne’s future, saying he’s confident in his talent and will improve. Smith pointed out Labuschagne’s skills even with his recent struggles.
When he’s at his best, he’s as good as anyone and I think he’ll get back there. He’s doing alright. I said after the last game that he batted well in the World Test Championship Final but didn’t make a big score, Smith told SEN Radio, as reported by The Indian Express.
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Smith shared his views on Labuschagne’s form and what might have gone wrong for him.
His movements and positions were good and he was hitting the ball through mid-wicket well. When he’s doing that from an off-stump line, I think he’s balanced and moving well. He was batting well, Smith said.
Smith reiterated that Marnus Labuschagne has world-class ability and can get back in the team.
Labuschagne didn’t play the last Test so he can work on things he wants to without the pressure of playing, Smith said.
Labuschagne’s Test average has fallen from 33.3 (2023-24) to 26.5 (2024-25) which is why he was dropped. In 17 innings this year he scored 463 runs at 30.9. That’s lower than his previous numbers. Even after facing 987 balls he didn’t score a century. His strike rate was 46.9 so he wasn’t scoring fast. He had a dot ball rate of 76.4% so he was struggling to rotate the strike. Given his place in the Australian Test team, his batting has been a worry this year.
