Labuschagne hits record low as Australia fight back in Cape Town
Marnus Labuschagne recorded his 48th consecutive Test innings without a century as Australia fought back against South Africa in Cape Town.
Marnus Labuschagne's poor form hit a record low as Australia's new guard stood up to put the tourists in a strong position in the decisive Test against South Africa. Steve Smith was ruled out of the enthralling encounter with a neck injury, leaving his long-time partner to anchor the number three spot in Cape Town.
The 32-year-old lasted five deliveries without scoring a run, failing to reach a Test century for the 48th consecutive innings. Former Australia quick Jason Gillespie remarked on ABC that the unwanted milestone is a record that will never be broken because no player will be given that length of time again.
Ricky Ponting noted earlier that Labuschagne cannot score off the back foot, a weakness exposed when he played back to a full ball from spinner Simon Harmer and edged to slip. Simon Katich added that the struggles stem from immense pressure and nerves after selectors kept him in the position for an extended period.
With Travis Head and Labuschagne departing early as the score slumped to 58-2 in reply to South Africa's 329, Australia needed a rescue act. Matt Renshaw, Cameron Green, and Josh Inglis answered the call by each scoring fifties to put their side in the ascendancy.
Renshaw contributed 74 runs, continuing his strong form after a career-best 190 in Durban. Towering all-rounder Green played with composure to notch 65 runs under Table Mountain, while Inglis finished unbeaten on 85 alongside Alex Carey to frustrate the Proteas.
Earlier in the match, Mitchell Starc starred with the ball by claiming 6-72 to bowl out South Africa for 329, where Ackerman top-scored with 95. Australia reached 330-4 by stumps, holding a narrow lead of one run with Inglis and Carey at the crease.