Marnus Labuschagne has indirectly blamed Joe Root for England’s defeat in the opening Ashes 2023 Test. He said Bazball style of play will be tested if the curator dishes out speedier wicket at Lord’s.

Root, who scored 118 in the first innings, was out for 46 in the second innings trying to hit Nathan Lyon for a big hit.

With most of the English batters adamant they will go “harder” when the second Test starts on Wednesday, Marnus said it might once again help the Aussies.

“Joe Root kept us in the game. He could have easily taken the lead over 300 had he added 80-plus but he managed 46. That’s the benefit for us with the way they are playing,” he added.

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