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Old Marnus Labuschagne is back! Ends slump with gritty 90 as Australia lead over New Zealand

Old Marnus Labuschagne is back! Ends slump with gritty 90 as Australia lead over New Zealand

While Australia's batting order hasn't quite delivered a dominant performance, Labuschagne's anchoring innings has put them in a commanding position

New Zealand vs Australia 2nd Test: Marnus Labuschagne silenced his critics with a determined 90-run knock on day two of the second Test against New Zealand, putting Australia in a strong position.

Matt Henry Takes Five-fer, Marnus Labuschagne fights back

New Zealand‘s Matt Henry bagged his second five-wicket haul of the series, attempting to restrict Australia’s progress. However, Marnus Labuschagne, emerging from a recent dip in form, played a crucial role in guiding Australia past New Zealand’s first-innings total of 162.

Resuming from a Strong Position

Australia resumed day two at a comfortable 124/4, thanks to a solid batting display on day one. Labuschagne, unbeaten on 45, continued his anchoring role alongside nightwatchman Nathan Lyon.

Nathan Lyon Provides Valuable Support

Lyon, a thorn in New Zealand’s side throughout the series, once again proved his worth with a valuable 20-run contribution. His 51-run partnership with Labuschagne was instrumental in pushing Australia closer to parity.

Marnus Labuschagne silences doubts

Shaking off a brief period of lean form, Marnus Labuschagne reached his 50 off just 90 balls. This marked his first half-century in seven innings and ended a 15-innings wait for a century. He displayed his characteristic free-scoring style, particularly through the leg side.

New Zealand Strike Back

Despite Labuschagne’s heroics, New Zealand managed to break through Australia’s batting line-up. Mitchell Santner dismissed Lyon, followed by a successful review for a caught-behind decision against Mitch Marsh. Wicket-keeper Glenn Phillips then accounted for Alex Carey in his first over.

Phillips Takes a Blinder to Dismiss Labuschagne

Just before the lunch break, Phillips produced a stunning diving catch at gully to dismiss Labuschagne off Tim Southee’s bowling. Labuschagne, who fell agonisingly short of a century at 90, had played a vital knock for Australia.

Australia Still in Control

While Australia’s batting order hasn’t quite delivered a dominant performance, Labuschagne’s anchoring innings has put them in a commanding position. They lead by 59 runs with wickets remaining, and Mitchell Starc unbeaten on 17.

Labuschagne’s Return to Form a Boon for Australia

This knock is a significant boost for Labuschagne, who had seen his average dip below 50 after hovering above 60 previously. Having endured a string of low scores, his return to form is a welcome sign for Australia heading into the remainder of the Test.

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