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'Last Night, My Mum Was...': Labuschagne Gets 'Emotional' After His Heroic Knock vs SA

image-lma2vodvLabuschagne was a concussion substitute in the first ODI [Twitter]

In one of the most remarkable matches lately, Australia from a winless position, ended up prevailing over South Africa in the first One-Day International (ODI) on Thursday evening.

Omitted from Australia's World Cup 2023 squad, Marnus Labuschagne came to Australia's rescue at Bloemfontein, scoring a match-winning 80* off 93, while chasing 223.

Labuschagne, who was not included in the playing XI, came in as a concussion substitute for Cameron Green and added a marvellous 113-run eighth wicket stand with Ashton Agar (48*) to help Australia notch up their first ODI win in South Africa since 2011.

Speaking in the post-match presentation, the 29-year-old revealed that his mother, Alta, had predicted that Labuschagne would feature in the first ODI, despite knowing a pre-decided XI did not include her son.

Here's what Labuschagne said

"What a roller-coaster! Last night, my mum was adamant that I was playing, but I said I was not playing. Funny things happen after a concussion! I've been pretty disappointed with my One Day cricket game, so I decided to have a break and right the wrong things I've been doing. There were things that I wanted to improve against spin and pace. Didn't have the pressure last night of batting. It was great how things came together."

Interestingly, Labuschagne was also the first-ever concussion sub in international cricket, coming in for Steven Smith in the second Ashes Test in 2019. 

The second ODI will take on place on September 9, and will be held at the same venue.