Marnus Labuschagne's priceless response to Justin Langer wanting to demote him to No.4

One must never ask Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne to drop down batting order. Australia coach Justin Langer learnt this hard way. According to Langer, he suggested Labuschagne to bat at .4 in first test against Pakistan and that was something which Labuschagne brushed off empathically.

Langer was speaking to Cricket Australia on eve of second test when he revealed incident that happened in Gabba. He said that in 1st test, when Joe Burns and David Warner’s partnership was established and passed four-hour mark, he had casually suggested idea of swapping Labuschagne's position with World's .1 Test batsman Steve Smith.

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According to Langer, he was only trying to alleviate some of mental fatigue of Australia’s new batting star. But Labuschagne did t see it same way. Langer said that by time Burns and Warner had put around 200 runs on board, Labuschagne has been awaiting his turn for over four hours. So, Langer lightly asked Labuschagne if he would consider batting down order and let Smith go ahead.

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Marnus Labuschagne buries demotion talks with 185

Langer laughed, recalling Labuschagne's incredulous expression. coach and former opening batsman said that Labuschagne gave him a look as if he had stolen his bike and asked him if he was joking. Queenslander n went to crease and made Langer eat away his suggestion by scoring his maiden Test century. In that match, Labuschagne scored 185 runs and became top-scorer of match for hosts.

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Langer concluded that it is Labuschagne's enthusiasm for game that makes him an excellent and valuable player. Australian coach added that it was necessary to have his attitude while batting in top three because se players have got to be sharp all time. Labuschagne is one of only players who can match Smith’s all-round approach to cricket. We must say, Australian coach will think twice before ever suggesting even lightly to demote him in future. 

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