Labuschagne's form hits record low but Australia hint at future

Marnus Labuschagne's poor form hit a record low but Australia's new guard stood up to put the tourists in a strong position in the decisive Test against South Africa. Marnus Labuschagne has not scored a Test century since the 2023 Ashes Marnus Labuschagne has been front and centre for an era of Australian cricket. Chirping, chewing and, with bat in hand, often appearing to idolise and mimic his team-mate Steve Smith. Smith has been ruled out of the enthralling decisive Test against South Africa with a neck injury. Without him, Australia wanted their number three to feast at last chance saloon, where he has been perched for an eternity, on day two in Cape Town.

The 32-year-old lasted five deliveries and did not score a run. Labuschagne failed to scored a Test century for the 48th time in a row – a new record for the number of innings an Australian top order batter has waited to raise his bat at three figures. "That will never be broken," said former Australia quick Jason Gillespie on ABC. "I say that because, respectfully, I don't think anyone will be given that length of time again." There was a time when, from his insertion into the 2019 Ashes as a concussion substitute until the end of England's next quest to win back the