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Labuschagne's Fiery Stokes Clash & Surprising Bowling Heroics in Ashes Test

Marnus Labuschagne was central to Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test, engaging in a fiery confrontation with England captain Ben Stokes just before stumps. Stokes had the last laugh, however, dismissing the Australian batter for 48. Labuschagne also made a significant impact with the ball, using his part-time skills to trap and remove a well-set Jamie Smith. Australia finished the day strongly at 166/2, with Travis Head unbeaten on 91, positioning themselves well in reply to England's 384.

Key Points: Labuschagne vs Stokes: Ashes Clash & Bowling Impact

  • Labuschagne-Stokes heated on-field exchange
  • Labuschagne dismissed for 48 by Stokes
  • Labuschagne's surprising bowling removes set batter
  • Australia strong at 166/2 with Head on 91
2 min read

"He can get under your skin": Michael Neser on Stokes-Labuschagne face-off

Marnus Labuschagne's heated exchange with Ben Stokes and crucial bowling spell highlighted Day 2 of the Sydney Ashes Test. Analysis and quotes inside.

"s inside.QUOTE: He can get under your skin. It's just Marnus for you. - Michael Neser"

Sydney, January 5

Marnus Labuschagne was at the centre of attention on Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, making his presence felt with both bat and ball while also engaging in a fiery on-field exchange with England captain Ben Stokes late on Monday.

The Australian batter appeared to get under Stokes' skin during a heated moment just before stumps while he was batting. However, Stokes had the final say as he dismissed Labuschagne for 48 in the first innings, denying him a half-century. Labuschagne's knock came off 68 deliveries and played a key role in Australia's reply.

When asked about the confrontation during the post-day press conference, Michael Neser brushed aside the incident, "Not a clue..."

He later explained Labuschagne's competitive nature, saying, "It's just the fact that he's such a strong competitor that he can get under your skin. It's just Marnus for you."

Labuschagne also impressed with the ball earlier, showcasing his value as a part-time option. Speaking about his bowling, Neser said, "He loves bowling. We've seen it in (Sheffield) Shield cricket. It's not a surprise to us, because he's actually done that role quite often in Shield cricket and got a fair few wickets bowling short."

He removed Jamie Smith, who was well set on 46. Smith fell into the trap, going after a short ball and finding a fielder on the boundary just before lunch.

Highlighting Labuschagne's bowling skills further, Neser added, "It's not like it's just a fluke. He's actually practiced it. The one thing about Marnus is his quicker ball is actually quite a lot quicker - he was in the 130s (kph) and then he can bowl anywhere from 112 to 130, so it's quite hard to get a read on him when he's going like that."

England were bowled out for 384 in their first innings. Australia responded strongly and ended Day 2 on 166/2, with Travis Head leading the charge. The opener was unbeaten on 91 off 87 balls, while Michael Neser was at the other end on 1, as Australia looked well placed heading into the next day.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Stokes vs. Labuschagne is the duel we didn't know we needed! 😂 It's these little moments that make Test cricket so compelling. Also, Labuschagne bowling in the 130s kph as a part-timer? That's seriously impressive dedication.
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Arjun K
Respectfully, I think the article focuses a bit too much on the "spat" and not enough on the actual cricket. Australia are in a strong position at 166/2. Head's 91* is the real story here. The mind games are just a side show.
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Sarah B
As a neutral fan, this is fantastic theatre. Neser's comment "It's just Marnus for you" sums it up perfectly. Some players just have that ability to get inside the opponent's head. Great for the spectacle!
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Vikram M
Labuschagne's all-round contribution is what stands out. Getting a key wicket and a solid 48. That's the kind of utility player every team dreams of. Reminds me of the value Jadeja brings to our Indian side.
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Karthik V
The intensity of the Ashes is something else! You can feel it even through the article. Stokes having the last laugh with the wicket is classic cricket karma. Can't wait to see how Day 3 unfolds.

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