Marnus Labuschagne involved in a drawn-out confrontation with on-field umpire over decision during grade cricket clashÂ
Marnus Labuschagne argued with the on-field umpires while playing for the Redlands in the T20 Max tournament in Brisbane. The batter was left unpleased with the not-out decision surrounding Hugh Weibgen due to a bump ball ruling, and now runs the risk of facing disciplinary action for his outburst.
During the clash against Valleys, Labushcagne scored four runs as Redlands were bundled out for 103. The chasing side were well poised at 45-1 after six overs in pursuit of the target. In the next over, U-19 World Cup-winning skipper Weibgen pushed a delivery to the fielder at short cover, followed by appeals for a catch from the Redlands players.
However, the on-field umpire adjudged that Weibgen had bumped the full delivery to the ground instead. Labuschagne went over to the officials, apparently demanding an explanation behind the decision. The discussion halted the game for a significant time. At the end of the over, the umpires discussed while taking a few notes, reportedly citing Labuschagne's indiscretion. Have a look at the incident unfold right here.
Labuschagne ended up dismissing the youngster, but it came too late in the 14th over. Weibgen scored 39 runs off 31 deliveries while Labuschagne ended up with figures of 1-6 as Valley won the clash by seven wickets.
Labuschagne charged with a Level 2 Dissent for his actions
The right-handed batter has to attend a hearing while Queensland cricket authorities decide on an appropriate punishment. With Labuschagne set to depart for England soon to join the ODI squad for the upcoming five-match series, the hearing and the ruling is expected to be swift.
With the T20 Max competition not coming under the international cricket umbrella, the Queensland cricket authorities do not have the brawn to suspend the cricketer from global affairs. However, since they have full authority to determine proceedings within the domestic side, Labuschagne could miss a part of the Sheffield Shield, if he faces an extended suspension or even a match ban.
It is understood that Labuschange did not use any foul language during the confrontation with the umpires. But the offense of disputing the decision and the nature of the discussion has landed the player in trouble.
Labuschagne was primed to lead Queensland in the upcoming Sheffield Shield competition. The batter was also one of the several senior players turning to the domestic red-ball tournament as a preparation avenue for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy during the home season.