Chappell says Labuschagne’s turnaround must start mentally

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell says Marnus Labuschagne’s prolonged Test batting slump requires a change in mindset, arguing that restricted footwork and growing caution are limiting the batter’s ability to attack. Chappell also suggested Labuschagne may be experiencing what he calls Elite Players Decline Syndrome, a diagnosis that reflects his own assessment rather than an independently established condition. Labuschagne has gone 26 Tests and 49 innings without a century since scoring 111 at Old Trafford in July 2023. In that period, he has made 1,094 runs at an average of 24.31, with nine half-centuries. During Australia’s recent series against South Africa, he scored 131 runs in six innings, with a highest score of 39. Chappell said Labuschagne’s batting had changed from the quick, decisive movement he showed earlier in his career. He described the current approach as more flat-footed, saying Labuschagne is often late to the ball and has fewer deliveries he can attack. In Chappell’s view, that change limits scoring options and can add to frustration at the crease. Chappell’s EPDS theory is that experienced elite batters can become more conservative as they grow more...