Australia’s star batter Marnus Labuschagne has found himself under scrutiny for his tendency to get dismissed at the gully region. This issue, which has become increasingly noticeable, came to light once again during the second Test against India in Adelaide. Despite scoring a steady 64 runs in the first innings, Labuschagne was caught by Yashasvi Jaiswal at gully, sparking criticism from former Australian opener David Warner.
David Warner, known for his candid assessments, expressed doubts about Labuschagne’s shot selection and temperament, especially after getting set at the crease. Labuschagne, however, was quick to defend himself against Warner’s remarks ahead of the third Test in Brisbane. Speaking to News Corp, the right-handed batter addressed the claims, dismissing them as exaggerated.
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“I’d like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully because apparently, I get out there every week,” Marnus Labuschagne said, adding that his review of past dismissals suggests otherwise. “I can only remember being caught at gully twice, so I might have to look at Bull’s [Warner’s] comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers and articles.”
So far in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Labuschagne has batted in three innings. After a single-digit score in Perth, he bounced back with a half-century in Adelaide, showcasing flashes of his capabilities.
However, David Warner remained critical, arguing that Labuschagne benefitted from subpar Indian bowling during his knock. “I’m still not convinced with Marnus. He had the best conditions to bat in, but they bowled poorly. He got out the same way—caught at gully—when he was set,” Warner stated, pointing to a pattern in Labuschagne’s dismissals.
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As the series heads to Brisbane, Labuschagne will aim to silence critics like Warner by delivering a commanding performance. With the series tied 1-1, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
