Marnus Labuschagne Remains Confident in No. 3 Spot Amid Criticism

Marnus Labuschagne remains confident in his ability to bat at No. 3 for Australia, despite facing criticism for his recent performances. As he prepares to captain Queensland in the One-Day Cup, Labuschagne acknowledges the scrutiny but emphasizes his commitment to improving his game. With uncertainty surrounding his place in the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa, he aims to regain his form and silence critics. The article delves into Labuschagne's recent struggles, the selectors' stance, and his focus on domestic cricket as he gears up for the challenges ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 17, 2026, 21:43 IST

Labuschagne's Confidence in His Role

Marnus Labuschagne asserts that he is still the top choice for the No. 3 batting position for Australia, despite facing criticism regarding his recent performance. He is set to lead Queensland in the One-Day Cup before joining the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.

Facing Scrutiny Over Performance

In an interview with Code Sports, Labuschagne stated, "I believe I am the best fit for No. 3 in Australia. However, if others have a different perspective, that is their opinion." The 32-year-old has been named in the Test squad for the South Africa tour, but his inclusion in the starting lineup for the first Test in Durban is still uncertain. Australia will have a two-day warm-up match in Potchefstroom next month prior to the series.

Labuschagne is scheduled to lead Queensland against Victoria at Allan Border Field on Saturday, followed by another One-Day Cup match against New South Wales on Monday before the Test-only players head to South Africa.

His recent performances have raised concerns about his position, as he scored 1, 31, and 4 against Bangladesh last month, marking 43 innings without a century. Since the conclusion of the 2023 Ashes, his average has dropped to 25.43. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has suggested that Labuschagne should be dropped, while David Warner recently commented on his lack of centuries in a social media interaction with the Barmy Army.

Handling Criticism and Focus on Improvement

Labuschagne recognizes that criticism is part of being a player and is determined to regain his form. He remarked, "Criticism is something you invite as a player because it is performance-related. I am not being criticized as a person; it is my performance that has been lacking. Those who know me understand that I am doing everything possible to return to my best form."

Selectors' Decisions and Squad Adjustments

George Bailey, the chair of selectors for Australia, did not confirm Labuschagne's position for the Durban Test when the squad was announced. There have been discussions about Steven Smith returning to the No. 3 spot, and Cooper Connolly has been identified as a potential alternative.

Labuschagne was omitted from Australia's ODI squad currently in Zimbabwe, which will travel to South Africa for three matches. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are expected to join the team for those one-day matches ahead of the Test series. Bailey mentioned that Labuschagne's absence from the ODI series could allow him to focus on red-ball cricket preparation. "Marn will continue to refine his preparation for this series," Bailey noted. "Not participating in the one-day series might help him concentrate on red-ball cricket, which could be beneficial."

Domestic Cricket Focus

Last season, Labuschagne had an impressive One-Day Cup campaign, amassing 468 runs in six innings, including four centuries. The domestic competition kicks off on Friday, featuring a match between Western Australia and South Australia in Perth.

Jake Weatherald, who lost his Test spot after the first match against Bangladesh, is part of South Australia's squad after returning from Tasmania during the off-season. South Australia coach Ryan Harris commented, "He is back with a strong determination to reclaim his Test position. There have been doubts about his return, but consistent performance will dictate his future. His attitude has been commendable."