You Don’t Need The Title To Still Be A Leader In The Group - Marnus Labuschagne Not "Disappointed" After Being Overlooked For Test Captaincy

Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne has given his backing to new skipper Pat Cummins and vice-captain Steve Smith ahead of the upcoming home Ashes against England.

Marnus Labuschagne, the number 4 ranked ICC Test batter, was also thought by experts to be in contention to replace Tim Paine – but the selectors went with the experienced pair of Cummins and Smith.

Marnus Labuschagne, who has had a phenomenal rise in international cricket since the 2019 Ashes, stated that he isn’t “disappointed” at not being considered for the leadership role, and that he’s focussed on scoring big runs in the Ashes.

“No, I wasn’t disappointed,” Marnus Labuschagne told reporters on Friday.

“I think they are two very good leaders and very good candidates. Cummins is going to do a fabulous job and he’s got plenty of support with Steve as his vice-captain and all the senior players of the group.

“My job right now is to concentrate on scoring runs consistently for Australia and I’m happy for that to be my role for now. You don’t need the title to still be a leader in the group,” he added.

The target is on the back now: Marnus Labuschagne

Since returning to Australia’s eleven during the 2019 Ashes as a concussion substitute to Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne averages 72.82, with 5 hundreds and 9 fifties.

Having cemented his place at the number 3 position, he knows that he has the “target on the back” in the upcoming Ashes. But also understands piling up runs consistently will only put him in the elite.

“I was lucky to get the opportunity in 2019 and go on with it. The target is on the back now. I’ve got great examples from this generation to look up to…Williamson, Smith, Root, Warner, Kohli…who consistently score runs,” he said. 

Marnus Labuschagne is also excited to face the legendary James Anderson for the first time in Test cricket.

 “I really can’t wait for that challenge to face Jimmy. You don’t take that many wickets and be England’s best ever without being quality,” the South Africa-born added.

The first Ashes Test is slated for Brisbane from December 8. Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth are slotted to host the next four Tests.

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