Australia's Marnus Labuschagne fell for a duck on day two of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town, extending his century drought to a record 48 consecutive innings for an Australian top-four batter. South Africa were bowled out for 329, with Tony Ackerman top-scoring with 95, while Mitchell Starc took 6-72. In reply, Australia reached 330-4, leading by one run, thanks to half-centuries from Matt Renshaw (74), Cameron Green (65) and an unbeaten 85 from Josh Inglis.
Labuschagne's prolonged slump
Labuschagne, 32, has not scored a Test century since the 2023 Ashes at Old Trafford. Since then he averages 24.77, a sharp decline from the 65 he averaged from his 2019 Ashes debut until the end of England's 2023 tour. Former Australia quick Jason Gillespie said the record "will never be broken" because no player would be given that length of time again. Ricky Ponting, a former number three, recently called for Labuschagne's omission, noting he "can't score off the back foot." Simon Katich attributed the dismissal to nerves and prolonged selector pressure.
Younger players seize opportunity
With Steve Smith ruled out by a neck injury and Travis Head already dismissed, Renshaw, Green and Inglis steadied the innings. Renshaw, born in Middlesbrough, followed his career-best 190 in Durban with a composed 74. Green, long viewed as Australia's golden boy, showed newfound composure in his 65. Inglis, who grew up in Yorkshire, was particularly effective against the spinners, finishing 85 not out in an unbroken 145-run stand with Alex Carey.
Future implications
Smith's return for the next Test against New Zealand in December will likely force Green and Inglis out of their current positions. Green previously struggled as a number three, averaging 23.5 in a four-Test trial, while Inglis has limited first-class experience at that spot. However, the performances in Cape Town suggest Australia have viable alternatives as they contemplate a generational shift. Labuschagne's place appears increasingly uncertain.
