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Labuschagne strikes third straight ton

3 minute read

Marnus Labuschagne has cemented his spot at No.3 following a series of scintillating displays with the bat, with the latest a sparkling century against NZ.

MARNUS LABUSCHAGNE
MARNUS LABUSCHAGNE Picture: Gareth Copley/Getty Images

Marnus Labuschagne has become the first Australian in 72 years to follow his maiden Test century with two tons in his next two innings.

Labuschagne had five half-centuries but no tons to his name entering the recent series against Pakistan.

His knock of 185 in the first Test at the Gabba finally broke his century drought, and he followed it up with 162 in the second Test in Adelaide.

Labuschagne's hot form continued in Perth, where he struck an unbeaten 110 off 202 balls against New Zealand at Optus Stadium on Thursday.

His ton featured 14 fours and one six, with the in-form right-hander bringing up the milestone with a big six down the ground.

Not since Arthur Morris in 1947 has an Australian converted a maiden Test ton into three straight centuries.

Labuschagne's latest heroics lifted him past 1000 Test runs and edged his average to 60.

The 25-year-old has been a shining light since coming into the Test team as a concussion sub for Steve Smith during the Ashes.

Labuschagne has plundered runs for fun since then and his hot series against Pakistan means he now has an iron grip on the No.3 spot.

But even up until very recently it wasn't the case.

"There was a conversation at one stage about maybe moving him down the order, sort of starting him at five, but he didn't want a bar of it," Australia captain Tim Paine said.

"He wanted to go out at three. He wants to be a star Test match international cricketer.

"He sees himself as a No.3. He wants that challenge. He'd be hard to move out of there now, that's for sure.

"We're rapt with the way he's started in that position and looking forward to watching him continue to get better."

Labuschagne's part-time spin could also prove crucial as Australia rotate their bowlers in the 40-degree heat forecast for the next few days.

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