Marnus Labuschagne Ends 11-Month Century Drought Ahead of South Africa Test Series

Marnus Labuschagne all but confirmed his place at No. 3 for the first Test against South Africa, hitting a century in Australia’s pre-series warm-up game. Facing a Cricket South Africa Invitational XI in Potchefstroom, the 32-year-old ended an 11-month century drought in all formats to show signs of his damaging best at the perfect time.

While not without the occasional edge through the slips, Labuschagne struck 19 fours to reach three figures in just 76 balls before retiring on 111. The innings comes at a vital juncture for the batter, who has averaged just 24.69 since his last Test century in July 2023, including a trio of failures in Australia’s recent series against Bangladesh.

However, the knock came in perfect batting conditions against a bowling attack far removed from what the tourists will face against the Proteas in Durban. Australia racked up 6/368 from 74 overs on the second day of the two-day match, with three of those wickets, including Labuschagne’s, coming via retirements.

Cameron Green remains in grave doubt after missing the tour match with an abdominal injury sustained in the ODI series. Green's potential absence is set to mark the only change to the Australian XI that thrashed the Tigers by an innings in Mackay, with squad options vying for the all-rounder's spot.

Matt Renshaw made a steady 32 opening alongside Travis Head before edging behind, virtually guaranteeing his spot at the top of the order after avoiding fielding on Day 1 to manage a wrist injury. Steve Smith and Alex Carey each hit half-centuries, while Beau Webster managed 42 before retiring in a match that turned into a glorified net session.

Smith’s relaxed attitude was highlighted by some trademark antics between balls, including working on his putting game. Such a lighthearted approach mirrors similar scenes from the Bangladesh series in August as the visitors fine-tune their preparations ahead of the opening Test.