Labuschagne scores century in low-intensity Potchefstroom warm-up

Less than 50km from where he was born, Marnus Labuschagne helped himself to a rapid confidence-boosting century as Australia wound up their warm-up game with a day at the crease.

Labsuchagne, who is from Klerksdorp down the N12 highway from Potchefstroom, brought up his hundred from just 76 balls before retiring a short time later. The CSA Invitational XI bowling attack was modest and in truth below first-class standard but, except for one thick edge that flew through gully, Labuschagne was in control throughout and unfurled a series of strong drives and clips.

The hundred did not come with the emotion of his maiden ODI century he scored at this ground in 2020, but he did appear to acknowledge some local support in the small crowd. His position in the Test side is under huge scrutiny after not scoring a Test century in more than three years and averaging 25.43 since the 2023 Ashes. However, he appears certain to retain his spot at No. 3 for the opening Test in Durban next week.

After Neil Brand's century had dominated the opening day as Australia carefully managed their bowlers, the visiting openers couldn't make the most of starts in friendly conditions but the rest of the top order all spent considerable time in the middle.

Travis Head was superbly held in the slips by Jiveshan Pillay at the second attempt and Matt Renshaw edged Christopher King, the most impressive of the seamers, from round the wicket. Renshaw hadn't fielded yesterday after the blow on the wrist in the final ODI last week but being at the crease on Sunday confirmed there were no lingering concerns.

Renshaw was recalled to the Test side against Bangladesh in Mackay when Jake Weatherald was dropped, becoming the latest in a revolving door of openers Australia have used since early 2024.

Labuschagne dominated the scoring as he and Steven Smith added 115 for the third wicket. Smith was far from his fluent best and at times appeared frustrated, but it was hardly the type of contest to get his competitive juices flowing. He started to free himself up as he reached fifty and then retired at the tea interval.

Beau Webster was given the chance at No. 5 ahead of Alex Carey and Cooper Connolly who have had recent time at the crease in the ODI series. When Carey came in after Smith finished, he survived a strong lbw appeal first ball when sweeping left-armer Jade de Klerk.

It took Carey 16 balls to get off the mark, but he then reached fifty from just another 41 as he and Webster added 76 before the latter also retired. Carey then drove to cover against Brand before Connolly, who will be in line to play in Durban if Cameron Green is unfit, and Pat Cummins saw out the day when hands were shaken with 16 overs unbowled.

Nic Maddinson joined the squad in Potchefstroom on Saturday evening after his surprise recall. Australia will relocate to Durban on Monday where this tour will go to another level.