Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne set for South Africa Test after first ton in 11 months

Australia batter Marnus Labuschagne scored his first century in 11 months, hitting 111 off 89 balls against a Cricket South Africa Invitation XI in Potchefstroom. The innings strengthens his position to bat at No 3 in the first Test against South Africa starting in Durban on Friday. Labuschagne retired out after reaching his 76-ball century with 19 fours in the warm-up match.

Steve Smith added 61 and Alex Carey scored 57 as Australia posted 6-368 in the drawn two-day contest. Meanwhile, South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje is expected to be named in the Proteas' 15-player squad following a prolonged absence from first-class cricket due to fitness concerns over Kagiso Rabada.