Ashes 2019: Marnus Labuschagne Believes Spin Will Help Them in the Fourth Test

Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne, who replaced the in-form Steve Smith in the second Test, has been scoring back-to-back half-centuries. He believes spin will play a big role in the fourth Ashes Test against England in Manchester. He has scored a half-century (67) along with Steve Smith (60*) and helped Australia to put up a decent total at stumps on the first day. They were 170 for 3 after the first day.

“It was important for us to make sure we dig in and and get a big first innings score because there’s some spin out there so it’s really good for us,” Labuschagne said after the day. “It’s been a good day obviously. We wanted to keep making sure we were really disciplined because it can turn very quickly out there.”

The batsman, however, said that they have been doing well and expected to keep the momentum. Although he shared that it was tough to bat and get used with the conditions, the wind. Even it was tough for them to concentrate due to the distractions around the ground.

Having replaced Smith in the second innings of the Lord’s Test, he has been retained in the squad for his outstanding performance. However, this was the first time he got a chance to bat with Steve Smith for the first time in the game.

“It was good fun. It was good spend some time with him and good experience to see how he goes about it and also learn from him out there,” Labuschagne expressed. “What makes him the best in the world is that he’s always one step ahead and thinking ahead and not being reactive. He’s being proactive which makes him very hard to bowl to.”

On the other hand, England pacer Craig Overton, who dismissed Labuschagne, said the conditions weren’t in favour of England’s bowlers. Even he said it was a frustrating day for them. Although, he is hopeful of coming back strongly in the second day.

“Someone needs to stand up and get the position back in our favour. We’re probably slightly behind but we feel the conditions weren’t with us so we’ll come back tomorrow, get a few early ones and we’ll be right back in the game,” he said.