Chronological coverage updated 4th October 2026 23:44.
Update 1 · 4th October 2026
Marnus Labuschagne hits timely century as Australia prepare for South Africa Tests
Marnus Labuschagne addressed questions regarding his Test place by scoring his first century in 11 months during Australia's warm-up match against a Cricket South Africa Invitation XI in Potchefstroom.
Marnus Labuschagne scored 111 runs off 89 deliveries, reaching his century in 76 balls with 19 boundaries before retiring..
The 32-year-old batter reached his hundred off 76 balls before retiring on 111 at Senwes Park, located near his birthplace of Klerksdorp. Labuschagne had faced scrutiny after going 43 Tests without an international Test century.
The Guardian reportedly quoted Matt Renshaw (Australia batter) as saying: “Really nice. Looks like he’s got a lot of energy at the crease, it’s the Marn that I know that’s batting well,”.
Preparations for Durban Test
Australia compiled 6-368 in the drawn match, with Steve Smith scoring 61 before retiring and Alex Carey adding 57. Openers Matt Renshaw and Travis Head made 32 and 21 respectively.
The upcoming three-match series marks Australia's first Test tour in South Africa since 2018. Five players from that tour—Smith, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Renshaw—remain in the current squad.
South Africa are considering recalling fast bowler Anrich Nortje to their Test squad following a three-and-a-half-year absence from first-class cricket due to back and hip injuries, amid fitness doubts over Kagiso Rabada.
- Labuschagne scored a 76-ball century in Australia's warm-up fixture in South Africa.
- Steve Smith and Alex Carey also posted half-centuries in the drawn match.
- The first Test begins in Durban on Friday.
