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'Easy, Got...': Labuschagne Targets Shubman Gill To Join Hands With Steve Smith

Rajgeeta∙ Updated: Jan 3 2025, 10:40 AM

Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne has the last laugh [Source: SavageSiyaram/X.com]Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne has the last laugh [Source: SavageSiyaram/X.com]

The ongoing India vs Australia final Test in Sydney has been packed with drama and controversies. Amidst the intense battle on the field, one particular moment caught on the stump mic has left fans in splits. It involved Australian stars Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, who were seen engaging in some cheeky sledging aimed at Indian batter Shubman Gill.

India won the toss and chose to bat first. The opening pair started strong, but Australia struck early. Mitchell Starc dismissed KL Rahul for just 4 runs, followed by Scott Boland getting rid of Yashasvi Jaiswal.

It was during Shubman Gill’s innings, batting at number three, that things got interesting. As the session neared lunch, Gill tried to play out the remaining overs cautiously. However, the stump mic revealed a hilarious conversation between Smith, Labuschagne, and Gill right before the young Indian batter's dismissal.

With just minutes left before the lunch break, veteran spinner Nathan Lyon was about to complete his over. Shubman Gill, in an attempt to make it to lunch unscathed, began to engage in a bit of gardening on the pitch—a common tactic to waste time and break the bowler’s rhythm.

However, Steve Smith at first slip wasn’t amused by Gill’s antics and let his frustration be known. Labuschagne, always quick to back his idol, Smith, joined in the banter.

Here’s how the conversation went:

Labuschagne: “Easy, got it in easy! He needs to call for the ‘sprain’."

Smith: “This is bull****! Oi, let’s play!”

Gill: “You take your time, Smithy. No one says anything to you!”

Smith: “Just play, mate. Let’s play.”

Labuschagne: “Take your time.”


Right after this exchange, on the very next ball, Gill stepped down the pitch to Lyon. Misjudging the length, he edged the ball to Smith at first slip. Smith grabbed a comfortable catch at chest height, dismissing Gill for 20 off 64 balls.

Marnus Labuschagne has often expressed his admiration for Steve Smith. Over the years, he has picked up various tips from his senior and modeled parts of his game around Smith’s style. The duo is known for their close bond on and off the field, often seen sharing light moments during matches.