In the AUS vs WI 3rd ODI at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Tuesday, Marnus Labuschagne showcased exceptional fielding skills by taking a spectacular leaping catch to dismiss Keacy Carty. The remarkable catch by Labuschagne resulted in Lance Morris securing his maiden international wicket. Australia, after winning the toss, opted to bowl first in the decisive match of the three-game series.
The hosts received an early breakthrough when Xavier Bartlett trapped West Indies opener Kjorn Ottley LBW for 8, though Bartlett could have survived if he had opted for the DRS, as replays indicated a clear inside edge.
In the 11th over, Morris added to West Indies’ woes by dismissing Carty with a back-of-a-length delivery outside off. Carty attempted an uppish punch towards backward point, but Labuschagne’s acrobatic effort secured the wicket. The Windies faced another setback when skipper Shai Hope fell leg before wicket to Sean Abbott for 4.
Morris continued to make an impact, claiming his second wicket by removing Teddy Bishop (0) with a full delivery. During the fifth over of his initial spell, Lance Morris, having already taken 2 for 13 with a maiden, abruptly left the field after experiencing pain in his left side. Cricket Australia later confirmed a left side strain, and Morris would undergo a scan to assess the injury’s severity. This puts his availability for the upcoming Tests against New Zealand in doubt, despite traveling with the Test team during the early Australian summer.