Marnus Labuschagne has thrown his full support behind veteran opener Usman Khawaja ahead of the second Ashes Test, shutting down speculation that he or Steve Smith might step up to open the batting. The endorsement comes after Khawaja endured a difficult opening Test, managing just two runs across both innings while also battling back spasms that forced him to sit out the second innings.
In Khawaja’s absence, Travis Head was promoted to the top of the order and produced a match-defining century, touching off debate over Australia’s long-term opening partnership. Meanwhile, Labuschagne said Khawaja does not need any advice.
"I don't think he needs advice. He's 38, he's been around the block a long time ... he is an amazing player," Labuschagne told reporters on Monday.
"He's gone from No.3 to No.4 to opening (in his career); the way he's done that, navigated some tricky scenarios, the way he batted at Edgbaston, he's just been awesome. I don't have any advice for him on it because from first class this year he's batted beautifully, the way he's been batting is awesome."
Labuschagne further asserted that he and Smith won't be opening the innings for Australia in the second Test.
“I think we can be pretty sure that Steve or I won’t open,” Marnus said.
“I think where you bat in the order is probably pushes back the time you come to the crease, and I think that’s why there is a batting order because certain times suit certain players and the way they play."
The second Ashes Test will begin on December 4 at The Gabba in Brisbane.