Always very special getting a Test hundred but I'm disappointed I couldn't get us to Tea: Marnus Labuschagne

The fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford witnessed a remarkable display of skill and determination from Australia's No. 3 batter, Marnus Labuschagne. The 28-year-old batter, who had been struggling in the previous three Tests, finally found his form and technique to score a defiant century in the second innings.

Labuschagne, who had shown promise with a score of 41 in the first innings, truly shone amid challenging overhead conditions and England's formidable four-pronged pace attack. This knock marked his first Test hundred on English soil, making it a special moment for the South Africa-born player.

Reflecting on his performance after the day's play, Labuschagne expressed his disappointment at not being able to steer Australia through to Tea. Despite this, he acknowledged that his technique had improved, allowing him to attack the bowlers, and he underlined the importance of playing to his strengths throughout the innings.

"It's hard to judge where I feel with it. Obviously, it's always very special getting a Test hundred. It doesn't happen too often but I'm disappointed I couldn't get us to tea. I feel like my game is in a really good space now. Coming into this game I was confident about my technique and how I was batting. I was able to be confident and go back to my strengths, forcing their hand to bowl a lot of balls at me and take time out of the game," Labuschagne told the broadcasters after the game.

Swing challenge awaits Australia, Ashes retention at stake

This century came as a relief for Labuschagne, who had struggled to reach even a half-century in the previous Tests. His highest score before this match was 47, made in the first innings at Lord's.

As the day concluded, Labuschagne acknowledged that the ball change had introduced some swing, which could prove to be a challenge for both teams on Day 5, provided there is play. With Australia at 214/5, cutting down the deficit to 61 runs with five wickets in hand, the visitors will be aiming for a draw to retain the Ashes.

"We were so close to having a tremendous day there. We only needed 60 more to be within England's first innings total. The wicket feels alright, the ball change seems to have more swing, and that'll be a challenge in the morning, if we get play tomorrow. For us, this is about saving this Test match and retaining the Ashes," Labuschagne added.

As cricket fans eagerly await the final day's action, Labuschagne's resilient century stands out as a testament to the spirit and determination of the game.