There has been growing speculation about Marnus Labuschagne’s future in the Australian Test side, especially after he was dropped for the first match against the West Indies due to poor form. Some even believe that he might not feature in the upcoming Ashes series. However, Steve Smith doesn’t agree.
The modern-day great has firmly backed Labuschagne, stating that the right-handed batter still has what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Speaking to SEN Radio, Smith praised Labuschagne’s technique and expressed confidence in his comeback.
“At his best, he’s as good as anyone in the world and I’ve no doubt he’ll get back there. He’s actually in a pretty good place. I think I said it after the last game – I thought he batted really well in the World Test Championship Final without going on to make a big score,” Smith said.
“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team.” – Bailey
Smith further elaborated on Labuschagne’s form, saying his shot-making and balance were signs of positive rhythm at the crease. “I thought his movements, the positions he was getting himself into and the way he was in particular clipping the ball through mid-wicket (was great). I think when he’s doing that from an off-stump line, I feel like that’s when he’s in a good place, his balance is good, and his movements are pretty good. So yeah, I thought he was batting well.”
When Labuschagne was left out of the playing XI for the first Test against West Indies, Australian chairman of selectors George Bailey acknowledged the dip in form but showed faith in his long-term value.
“Marnus at his best can be a really important member of this team. He understands his output hasn’t been at the level we, or he, expects. We will continue working with him on the areas of his game we feel he needs to rediscover. We continue to value his skill and expect him to work through the challenge positively,” Bailey had said.
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