ENG vs AUS 2024: Marnus Labuschagne achieves unique feat, becomes first player to do so in ODI history

Australian batter, Marnus Labuschagne recently registered his name in the history books during Australia's commanding victory over England in the first ODI of their five-match series. The match at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, on September 19, saw Labuschagne achieve a feat never before accomplished in 50-over cricket.

The 30-year-old became the first player to score a half-century, claim three wickets, and take more than three catches in a single ODI match. This performance played a crucial role in the tourist's seven-wicket win, and taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Labuschagne with the ball in hand, struck in his very first over.

He denied Ben Duckett a century with a caught and bowled dismissal for 95. The Aussie followed this up by similarly removing Harry Brook and later dismissed Jofra Archer as well. Labuschagne's safe hands saw him take four crucial catches, which resulted in dismantling England to 315 in 49.4 overs.

We have a lot of trust in the people out here: Mitchell Marsh

With the bat, the right-hand batter initially played a supporting role after arriving on the crease following Cameron Green's dismissal. However, he soon found his rhythm and smashed two fours and a six in the 37th over. At that stage of the game, the visitor's chase became a smooth affair.

Also Read: ‘I’ve worked extremely hard and it's coming off in my playing’ - Travis Head reflects after huge ton in first England ODI

Labuschagne finished with an unbeaten 77* and provided brilliant support to Travis Head's explosive 154* not out, as Australia cruised to victory with six overs to spare. Captain Mitchell Marsh revealed that injuries had prompted the decision to utilize Labuschagne's bowling. Marsh also mentioned the calmness within the Australian camp as a key factor in their success.

"I'd love to take credit but it was a forced change. And the longer the innings went, we felt pace off was the way to go for us. I think the calmness within the group was great to see, we have a few young guys out here. There is a bit of illness going around in the camp as well. We have a lot of trust in the people out here, hope we can keep winning," he said during the post-match presentation.