Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne might face potential ban, charged with umpire dissent

New Delhi: Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne risks a probable, never-experienced ban due to an unheard-of suspension which might be declared as a result of the stormy incident he was involved in against an umpire during his team’s game in Australia T20 Max on Wednesday. Incidentally, the 30-year-old had reacted furiously at a particular decision and demonstrated aggressive attitude towards the umpire, bringing him under the charges of umpire dissent. He might now face a certain kind of ban for his misbehavior.

In a T20 Max match between Redlands and Valleys, Redlands captain Marnus Labuschagne protested an umpire’s decision to rule Valleys batter Hugh Weibgen not out, arguing that a seemingly clear catch had been incorrectly judged as a bump ball. Labuschagne’s persistent and heated argument over the decision led to his charge of umpire dissent.

The 2023 World Cup winner continued his argument even after the subsequent delivery, leading the umpires to direct him to leave the field. Later, the umpires were seen conferring at the center of the pitch, with commentators speculating that the discussion was about Labuschagne’s behavior. Charged with level 2 umpire dissent, Labuschagne will face a tribunal hearing where a potential ban will be decided.

A ban for South Africa-born Labuschagne is unlikely to affect his participation in Australia’s upcoming limited-overs tour of England, where he is set to feature in the five-match ODI series beginning September 19 at Trent Bridge. However, a suspension in domestic cricket could have significant repercussions for Queensland, who have appointed Labuschagne as their captain for the 2024-25 Sheffield Shield season.

Labuschagne – who was unbeaten at the crease as Australia beat India in the 2023 World Cup Final – has an average of 37.63 in ODI cricket, while his Test average is almost 50.