McDonald to reassess Labuschagne after South Africa defeat

Australia coach Andrew McDonald said selectors will reassess Marnus Labuschagne after the team’s 2-1 Test series loss in South Africa, but he has not decided whether the batter will play against New Zealand. McDonald said Labuschagne missed opportunities during the tour and that selectors would review his position in the coming week or so. He cautioned against making a decision immediately after the series defeat, while saying he still considered Labuschagne a very good cricketer who performs strongly when playing at state level. The review comes after Australia lost the deciding Test in Cape Town by 176 runs. Labuschagne was dismissed twice in eight balls in that match. His place in the side remains undecided as selectors assess performances in South Africa and state cricket ahead of the home series. McDonald defended the decision to select Labuschagne for the tour, saying that opportunities to play for Australia do not damage a player. He acknowledged the batter had not made the most of his chances in South Africa, while maintaining that the selection decision would be considered as part of the broader review. Despite the defeat, McDonald said Australia’s batting unit was in...