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Ashes 2023 | 'He Shouldn't Be Playing...': Kevin Pietersen's 'Harsh' Views on Marnus Labuschagne

image-lj42i0vgLabuschagne was dismissed twice by Broad [AP Photos]

Former England cricketer, Kevin Pietersen, shed light on Marnus Labuschagne's recurring pattern of dismissal while facing the veteran pacer Stuart Broad in the first Ashes 2023 Test at the Edgbaston in Birmingham.

Pietersen's analysis spotlights flaw in Labuschagne's technique

The world's No. 1 Test batsman found himself dismissed by Broad in both innings, falling prey to an eerily similar fashion as he edged the ball straight into the gloves of wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow.

Previously, Broad had revealed his strategy of utilizing the wobble seam and out-swinger to counter the duo of Labuschagne and Steve Smith leading up to the Ashes 2023. And true to his word, Broad's tactics have proven fruitful for England thus far.

While Labuschagne endured the agony of a golden duck in the first innings, the right-arm seamer once again got the better of Australia’s No. 3 as he claimed his wicket during Australia's chase late on Day 4, thereby instilling hope in the hearts of the hosts as they approached the final day of the Ashes opener.

Opening up on the same, Pietersen proposed an adjustment to Labuschagne's approach when facing Stuart Broad. The England veteran advised the Aussie batter to abstain from attempting deliveries that swerve tantalizingly outside the off-stump and emphasized the need to let them pass. He also noted that Labuschagne's positioning across the stumps was excessive which led to unnecessary triggers.

“Look at how wide that ball is to Marnus. I just think there’s a huge technical flaw there. He shouldn’t be playing at that delivery, you’ve got to let it go. He’s batting too far across his stumps, triggering too much,” said Pietersen on Sky Sports.

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, England posted a commendable 273 runs on the board in a mere 66.2 overs and set Australia a target of 281. In response, Australia concluded the day's play with a score of 107/3, setting the stage for an enthralling Day 5. 

The visitors need another 174 runs to claim victory, while the hosts eagerly seek to capture the remaining seven wickets, aiming to secure a 1-0 lead in the Ashes 2023.