AUS vs WI: Marnus Labuschagne exhibits gravity-defying catch to dismiss Keacy Carty

Displaying his sensational athleticism at the Manuka Oval in Canberra, Marnus Labuschagne’s acrobatic catch stole the limelight as Australia continued their dominance over the West Indies in the third ODI on Tuesday, February 6. Labuschagne’s stunning leap dismissed Keacy Carty, granting Lance Morris his maiden international wicket. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia’s decision paid dividends early on. 

Xavier Bartlett struck gold by trapping West Indies opener Kjorn Ottley LBW for just 8 runs. Ottley could have survived if he had opted for the DRS, as replays revealed a clear inside edge. The Windies’ woes deepened with Morris’s dismissal of Carty in the 11th over. A back-of-a-length delivery outside off saw Carty attempt an uppish punch towards backward point, only to be foiled by Labuschagne’s brilliance. The Windies were left reeling at 38/2.

Here’s Labuschagne’s brilliant catch: 

The visitors faced further adversity when skipper Shai Hope fell leg before to Sean Abbott for a mere four runs. Hope’s misjudgment of a full delivery angled into the middle cost him dearly. Morris continued to torment the Windies, claiming his second victim by dismantling Teddy Bishop’s stumps with a full delivery. Bishop’s misjudgment left the Windies struggling at 73/5 after 20 overs, with Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd at the crease.

Australia to play three T20Is against West Indies post ODI series

Australia’s commanding 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series reflects their dominance. They clinched the first encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with an eight-wicket victory, followed by an 83-run triumph at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in the second one-day.

After the culmination of the ODI series, Australia and the West Indies are set to clash in a thrilling three-match T20I series from February 9 to 13, spanning Hobart, Adelaide, and Perth. In preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024, Australia has announced a formidable T20I squad against New Zealand, featuring the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood. These key players return after being rested during the West Indies series, adding depth and experience to the squad.