Marnus Labuschagne is gearing up for another battle against the Indian pace attack on his home soil when Jasprit Bumrah & Co run in to bowl against Australia in the Border Gavaskar Trophy later this year. But one special battle Labuschagne is looking forward to is against paceman Mohammed Siraj.
Speaking to Star Sports in a recent interview, the Australian batsman shared the backstory of his relationship with Siraj and how their careers have progressed simultaneously.
"I enjoy my battles with Mohammaed Siraj for many reasons, said the 30-year-old Labuschagne. "We actually were at the academy in 2015-16. He was working with the MRF Academy and we played against each other. That's when I first met him."
The Australian, who has reached the landmark of 50 Tests, praised Siraj for the "energy" he brings to the field.
"He has got great passion, great energy, and a great love for the game. It's been nice (to see) our careers moving almost together from such experiences.
Siraj, who is also 30, has played 27 Tests for India and taken 74 wickets. He will next be seen in action in the two-match Test series at home against Bangladesh, beginning September 19 in Chennai.
After Bangladesh's visit, India will welcome New Zealand for a three-Test series, after which the team will travel to Australia for the Border Gavaskar Trophy that will be contested over five Tests for the first time.
All these 10 Tests are part of the World Test Championship and the results will decide if India can retain their current No. 1 spot in the WTC table or stay in the top two to qualify for their third straight WTC final in June next year.
