Tim Paine, Shane Watson Back Marnus Labuschagne's Selection Over Marcus Stoinis In WC Semi-Final
Published - 14 Nov 2023, 05:09 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:22 AM
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Former Australian captain Tim Paine picked Marnus Labuschagne over Marcus Stoinis in the playing XI for the semi-final clash of the ICC World Cup 2023. Tim Paine suggested that he would pick Marnus Labuschagne for his ability to handle pressure, especially in run chases.
Marcus Stoinis has faced struggles in the World Cup, managing only 87 runs in six games with a best of 35. His lower-batting position may have contributed to this struggle. He has taken four wickets at an average of 35.75, indicating a less impactful bowling performance.
I Wouldn’t Definitely Play Marcus Stoinis – Tim Paine
Speaking on SEN’s Whateley, Tim Paine emphasized that without knowing the wicket conditions, it’s challenging to make a definite decision. He suggested that if Stoinis is not utilized with the new ball, he would opt for Labuschagne due to his batting prowess.
“I wouldn’t definitely play Stonis. Without seeing the wicket, I find it really hard to make a call. But the only way I’m playing Marcus Stoinis ahead of Marnus is if we use him in a new ball role. If we don’t, I’m taking the batting every day of the week.
“If we lose the toss at Eden Gardens, it looks like that wicket has worn and it has been difficult to bat on,” Paine said.
Marnus Labuschagne Has Got The Ability To Handle Spin Bowling – Tim Paine
Paine emphasized the need for Marnus Labuschagne in the World Cup squad, particularly in spin-friendly conditions. Paine highlighted Labuschagne’s skill in handling spin bowling and the pressure of chasing in the second innings.
“The reason I would have had Marnus Labuschagne in our World Cup squad is because of this moment. If it spins, you need skill. If we’re chasing in the second innings and they’ve got three spinners, we need a guy who averages 60 in Test cricket,” Paine added.
“He’s got the ability to handle that type of bowling and that type of pressure. If Stoinis isn’t going to use the new ball for a couple of overs and he’s only bowled something like 19 overs for the World Cup, then I’m going to go with Marnus ahead of him and bring Maxwell in.”
Marcus Stoinis Hasn’t Set This World Cup Alight Yet – Shane Watson
“(Labuschagne) is someone who has done a very good job for Australia throughout this World Cup, and as well Marcus Stoinis hasn’t set this World Cup alight yet,” Watson said.
“What we’ve seen in this World Cup, is if Australia end up batting second in a semi-final, that period with those two new balls swinging around, you do need your best technically equipped batters who can handle that moving ball.”
“Marnus Labuschagne, with the Test skills, he’s got the ability to be able to handle a moving ball. There is a chance that Australia will have to bat second under lights, and he’s done a very good job of that throughout this tournament.”
Also read: AUS vs SA: Matthew Hayden Picks His Australia Playing XI For Semi-Final; Leaves Marcus Stoinis
Tagged:
Australia National Cricket Team ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Marcus Stoinis Marnus Labuschagne Shane Watson Tim Paine
