Labuschagne out for duck as Australia lead South Africa Test

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 28 Oct, 17:15 · Archive

Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed for no runs in Australia's decisive Test against South Africa, extending his century drought to a record 48 innings.

Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed for a duck on day two of the decisive Test between Australia and South Africa in Cape Town. The 32-year-old batsman lasted five deliveries without scoring a run.

Labuschagne's failure extends his Test century drought to 48 innings, a new Australian record for the longest wait to reach three figures. The previous sample had seen him average 65 between his insertion in the 2019 Ashes and the end of England's next tour. Since his last Test century at Old Trafford in 2023, he has averaged 24.77.

Australia reached 330 for four in reply to South Africa's 329, with opening batter Inglis scoring 85 not out. South Africa's Ackerman made 95 and the home side's Jansen took two wickets. Australia's Starc took six wickets in South Africa's innings.

Steve Smith was ruled out of the Test with a neck injury. Former Australia quick Jason Gillespie said on ABC that Labuschagne's record 48-innings drought 'will never be broken', suggesting no future player would be given such a length of time in international cricket.

How it is being reported

• Labuschagne's form hits record low but Australia hint at futureMarnus Labuschagne's poor form hit a record low but Australia's new guard stood up to put the tourists in a strong position in the decisive Test against South Africa.BBC News · 28 Oct, 16:51
• Labuschagne must beat mental block to overcome the 30s in third TestAustralia are set to favour Marnus Labuschagne's ability to soak up pressure against the new ball and help the batters around him, and to give him one more chance for the third Test in South Africa.ABC News Australia · 26 Oct, 19:43

In this story: Marnus Labuschagne · Australia · South Africa · Cape Town · Steve Smith · Jason Gillespie

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