Australia held a slim lead of one run with six first-innings wickets remaining on the second day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town, as four of their top six batsmen reached half-centuries. However, Marnus Labuschagne’s continued struggles at the crease have cast doubt over his future in the team.
Labuschagne, once the world’s top-ranked Test batsman, was dismissed cheaply after facing just five balls, edging a delivery from South African spinner Simon Harmer to first slip without any foot movement. This dismissal extended his century drought to 48 innings and marked his first failure to pass fifty since the Ashes Test in Brisbane in December 2023. Over his last 18 Tests, Labuschagne’s batting average has fallen to around 24, a significant drop from his career average above 40, raising concerns about both his form and shot selection.
Former Australian batsman Mark Waugh criticized Labuschagne’s approach on commentary, suggesting the dismissal was avoidable at the international level. Labuschagne, 32, could potentially return to Sheffield Shield cricket following the series to regain form ahead of Australia’s next Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin in early December. He is expected to be available to play for Queensland next month.
Selectors face a challenging decision regarding Labuschagne’s place in the squad, particularly with the Ashes series on the horizon and a demanding five-Test tour of India early next year. Should they choose to replace him, the timing would be crucial to allow his successor adequate preparation in the lead-up to these significant fixtures.
Despite Labuschagne’s early departure, Australia’s batting lineup performed well against favorable pitch conditions. The opening pair of Matt Renshaw and Travis Head compiled a 50-run partnership before Head was dismissed, caught playing on after scoring 41 runs. Renshaw, restored to the top order following the termination of Nic Maddinson’s brief stint there, and Cameron Green, returning after missing the first two Tests due to an abdominal injury, then added 126 runs for the third wicket.
Later in the innings, a 145-run unbroken partnership between Josh Inglis, making his return, and wicketkeeper Alex Carey helped Australia gain a strong position. Green was filling in for Steve Smith, who is sidelined with a neck injury and has only occasionally batted at number four in his Test career.
As the match progresses, Australia looks poised to maintain its advantage in the series decider, but ongoing concerns about Labuschagne’s form will remain a focal point for the team’s management going forward.