Marnus Labuschagne lasted five deliveries without scoring in Australia's second innings against South Africa in Cape Town. He failed to reach three figures for the 48th consecutive Test innings, a new record for an Australian batter in the top four.
Labuschagne has not scored a Test century since the 2023 Ashes. Since that last century at Old Trafford, he averages 24.77. Former Australia quick Jason Gillespie said on ABC that the record "will never be broken" and called for the selectors to "look elsewhere."
With Steve Smith ruled out by a neck injury, Australia needed Labuschagne to perform. Instead, he played back to a full ball from spinner Simon Harmer and nicked to slip. Simon Katich blamed nerves and pressure from the selectors on SEN Radio, saying they "put him in this position by not making the decision to give him a breather."
Australia replied to South Africa's 329 with 330-4, taking a one-run lead. Three younger players stepped up. Matt Renshaw scored 74, Cameron Green made 65, and Josh Inglis finished 85 not out in an unbroken 145-run partnership with Alex Carey. Inglis had not faced the red ball since March and arrived with limited preparation after a broken finger.
With Smith returning for the next Test against New Zealand in December, Green and Inglis would move from their current positions. But the day demonstrated Australia has merit in transitioning to the next generation.