Labuschagne admits form slump, vows to fight for Test spot

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne has acknowledged his prolonged Test form slump has left him open to criticism, but has vowed to fight for his place ahead of the upcoming series in South Africa. The 32-year-old, whose last Test century came more than three years and 43 innings ago, is part of Australia's squad for the three-Test series beginning in October. Labuschagne was dropped for Australia's tour of the Caribbean last year but earned a recall for the home Ashes after strong Sheffield Shield performances. However, he has averaged just 22.7 in seven Tests since returning in November, including a lean series against Bangladesh in August. Speaking ahead of Queensland's One-Day Cup opener against Victoria on Saturday, September 19, Labuschagne said the criticism was warranted. "Criticism... you bring on yourself as a player because that's performance-based," he said. "I'm not getting criticised because of me as a person, they are criticising my performance which in the last two years I have let that happen." He added that selectors understand his value. "There's clearly a reason that I'm still there, and I think the people that are in charge know that, and know the reason.