"Marnus Labuschagne Really Had Nothing To Lose, And It Was The Perfect Scenario For Him" - Usman Khawaja

Veteran Australian batter Usman Khawaja opened up about Marnus Labuschagne’s selection in the national team for the ICC World Cup 2023. Usman Khawaja emphasized that Marnus Labuschagne will give his best when uncertain about his spot in the team.

Marnus Labuschagne was not included in Australia’s provisional squad for the World Cup. However, he was recalled after Steve Smith was ruled out of the ODI series against South Africa. He also secured a berth in the World Cup squad following impressive performances.

Marnus Labuschagne Just Lurks In There – Usman Khawaja

Speaking to Fox Cricket, Usman Khawaja highlighted Marnus Labuschagne‘s ability to seize opportunities and make his way into the team. Khawaja said that Labuschagne’s inclusion hasn’t surprised him.

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“He just weasels his way in there, doesn’t he? He just lurks in there. It’s funny, you give Marnus an opportunity, he very rarely misses out. It doesn’t surprise me that he’s in there,” Khawaja said.

Marnus Labuschagne made a significant impact after being added to the Australian team. He scored an unbeaten 80 runs in the first ODI against South Africa and a century in the second match. He scored 138 runs in the recent ODI series against India.

He’s Found That Form Again – Usman Khawaja

The 36-year-old acknowledged Marnus Labuschagne’s talent, noting that he has been able to convert his potential into runs at the international level.

“He always had it in him. He’s played some beautiful innings for Queensland in the past, and I think he’s found that form again at the international level,” Khawaja continued.

“But it’s always hard to do at the international level because his spot was never certain… it still isn’t. He really had nothing to lose, and I think it was the perfect scenario for him.”

Labuschagne was named in Australia’s final 15-member World Cup after left-arm spinner Ashton Agar was ruled out of the tournament due to a calf injury. He is likely to find a place in the team in the absence of Travis Head, who is unavailable for the first few games.

Australia World Cup Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Also read: Not Babar Azam Or Marnus Labuschagne!! Rohit Sharma Names The Best Rising Talent In World Cricket