As Australia eyes a crucial victory against South Africa in Cape Town, former Australian cricketer Kerry O'Keeffe believes batter Marnus Labuschagne is playing for his Test career. The series is tied 1-1, and Australia needs 288 runs to win and retain its No.1 Test ranking. Labuschagne, who hasn't scored a Test century since 2023, faces immense pressure.

"I think he’s playing for his career in this second innings,” O’Keeffe stated, highlighting Labuschagne's recent dry spell. While acknowledging his past brilliance, O'Keeffe noted the consistent opportunities given to him to regain form, which haven't yet yielded results.

Brendon Julian, another former Australian all-rounder, offered a different perspective, suggesting that the uncertainty might free Labuschagne to play aggressively. "He’s got an advantage here to go; if they’re going to drop me, I’m just going to go for it. I’m going to play my shots,” Julian remarked, observing Labuschagne's tentative play. Julian even speculated that Labuschagne might not feature in the next Test match in Perth.

However, Australian legend Michael Hussey remains optimistic. "Well, I’d never say it’s the end of his Test career if he doesn’t make runs this time," Hussey said, adding that while he might be dropped temporarily, he could still return and contribute to the team, citing his recent tough couple of years.

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