In a moment of lapse in concentration, Australian star batsman Marnus Labuschagne gifted his wicket to James Anderson during the ongoing second Ashes 2023 Test match at the renowned Lord’s Stadium.
This dismissal further added to Marnus’ below-par performance in the English summer, as he was dismissed softly during the final session of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. Struggling to find his form, Labuschagne has failed to score a half-century in his six innings during the English summer, with an average of just 26.16. His highest score in the ongoing Test was 47 in the first innings.
The incident occurred on the first delivery of the 41st over when Marnus attempted to cut a harmless delivery from James Anderson, only to send it straight into the hands of England’s fielder, Harry Brook, stationed at backward point.
Normally, one would expect Marnus to punish a short and wide delivery, but this time the outcome was unexpected. Coming out to bat at No. 3 in the 25th over, Marnus could only stay at the crease for 16 overs before being dismissed for 30 runs off 51 balls, including five fours.
Even Marnus himself was astonished by the manner in which he was dismissed. You can watch the video of the dismissal here:
🎶 Oh Jimmy Jimmy… 🎶
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 30, 2023
Marnus Labuschagne gone for 3️⃣0️⃣! #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/NjgTY3AE2n
Despite the disappointment, Marnus Labuschagne is currently ranked third in the ICC Test rankings. He will aim to improve his batting performances away from home, as he has an impressive average of over 70 in 22 Tests played in Australia, while his batting average drops to less than 40 in 18 matches played outside Australia.
Regarding the ongoing Ashes series, after winning the thrilling first Test at Edgbaston, Australia is considered the favorite to win the second Test.