Labuschagne’s 91-Ball 105 in One-Day Cup Rekindles ODI and Ashes Hopes After India Snub

Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne has responded to his ODI exclusion with a blistering century in the Marsh One-Day Cup, scoring 105 off 91 balls against Tasmania at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field. The innings, laced with eight fours and two sixes, was Labuschagne’s third century in four domestic appearances and a timely reminder to selectors ahead of the upcoming Ashes and 2027 World Cup cycle.

Dropped from Australia’s ODI squad for the three-match series against India starting October 19 in Perth, Labuschagne’s recent domestic form has been nothing short of prolific. His latest knock came just days after scoring 160 in a Sheffield Shield fixture and 130 against Victoria in the One-Day Cup opener.

🏏 Labuschagne’s Recent Domestic Form

Labuschagne’s latest century came under pressure after Queensland lost an early wicket. He joined opener Jack Clayton and stitched a 90-run partnership, reaching his fifty off 51 balls. Batting alongside Matt Renshaw—his ODI replacement—Labuschagne accelerated in the middle overs before reaching his fifth List A ton in the 36th over. He was dismissed shortly after, triggering a collapse that saw Queensland bowled out for 311 in 45.3 overs.

📉 ODI Snub and Selector Rationale

Labuschagne was dropped after a lean run in ODIs, scoring just two runs across two innings against South Africa and failing to register a half-century in his last 10 ODI outings. His average had dipped to 13.80, prompting selectors to opt for Matt Renshaw, who has impressed in white-ball formats and is set to debut against India.

🧠 Labuschagne’s Response and Future Goals

Speaking after the match, Labuschagne said, “Whenever you’re not in an Australian team, you’re disappointed. But I was confident I’d score runs today. My goal is to be back in the ODI team before the 2027 World Cup.”

He also expressed his desire to reclaim a spot in the Test side for the Ashes series beginning November 21 in Perth. With Beau Webster nursing an ankle injury and other contenders struggling, Labuschagne’s form could see him return either as an opener or at his preferred No. 3 position.

🧾 ODI vs Domestic Performance Comparison

🧭 Ashes Selection Scenario

Labuschagne is competing with Sam Konstas, Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, Nathan McSweeney, and Jake Weatherald to partner Usman Khawaja. His recent form gives him an edge, especially with selectors considering a reshuffle in the top order.

🧠 Selector Watchlist: Ashes Contenders

Disclaimer

This news content is based on verified match reports, player interviews, and cricket board announcements as of October 10, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute betting advice, player endorsement, or selection prediction and adheres to ethical journalism standards.