'Jhuth bol raha hai' - Twitter reacts as Marnus Labuschagne clarifies he was 'just resting his eyes' after sleeping video goes viral from WTC final

Marnus Labuschagne (Source: Twitter)

Australia has so far dominated the WTC final against India. The Pat Cummins-led side posted a monumental 469 in the first inning and got India all out for just 296 in the first inning.

During the India vs Australia World Test Championship final, Marnus Labuschagne, the No. 3 batter for Australia, found himself caught napping, quite literally. As David Warner and Usman Khawaja walked out to bat for Australia's second innings, Labuschagne was spotted on the team balcony with his eyes closed and seemingly dozing off. The camera lingered on him for about 20 seconds, during which he didn't flinch.

However, Labuschagne's nap was abruptly interrupted by Mohammed Siraj of Team India. On the very next delivery, Siraj dismissed Warner, giving India their first breakthrough. The cameras quickly turned towards Labuschagne in the change room, who had promptly woken up and started putting on his protective gear. It became evident that Labuschagne had been awakened by the roar of the crowd at The Oval.

Labuschagne's comments after the day's play shed light on his brief moment of slumber. He explained, "I was just resting my eyes between balls and just relaxing. You can't watch the game all the time. I didn't have too many rests there when Siraj banged that first one in." His statement suggests that he considered taking a moment to relax between deliveries, emphasizing the need for mental and physical rest during the intensity of a Test match.

Labuschagne's remark hints at his belief in the importance of finding a balance during the game. While maintaining focus and concentration is crucial, he also recognizes the value of short breaks to recharge and stay mentally fresh. However, his timing couldn't have been worse, as Siraj's delivery resulted in Warner's dismissal.

Labuschagne's comment, combined with the footage of him being awakened by the crowd's noise, portrays a light-hearted moment amidst the intensity of the match. It showcases the human side of players, who, despite their dedication and determination on the field, sometimes find themselves caught off guard or in need of a momentary respite.

As the match unfolded, Labuschagne's nap became a lighthearted incident in an otherwise intense battle. It serves as a reminder that even professional athletes can have light-hearted and relatable moments during high-pressure contests.

Here's how Twitter reacted to Marnus Labuschagne's comments: 

Siraj to Labuschange : Utho labu batting ka waqt aa gaya pic.twitter.com/XMRQ3IAuMj

— Tweeting Quarantino (@rohitadhikari92) June 10, 2023

Yea bhi mst bnda h

— Teena🦋 (@oye_jaatni) June 10, 2023

pic.twitter.com/zZT27162Cm

— . (@AamirsABD) June 10, 2023

Just plane tactics of praising Indians to make them overconfident

— Pranit More (@Pisal_Mav) June 10, 2023

I am okay if Indian batters are in deep sleep in dressing room and super active on the field like labuschagne. He is junior Smith. I am more worried about Smith and his junior than other batters.

— Bharath Kumar (@Iam_BharathK) June 10, 2023

Aaj jaldi out hoke so jana 👍

— Ro Verse (@vintage_hitman) June 10, 2023

If there is no wicket

He would have said

I am confident about our openers

— Harish Kumar Matlapudi (@MatlapudiHarish) June 10, 2023

Siraj ne isko ball mar-mar ke iski nind udadi aur abb ye out nai ho Raha 😭

— NIHAR (@NIHAR17284962) June 10, 2023

Marnus Labuschagne's honesty is refreshing! Taking breaks between balls is crucial for high performance. Plus, Siraj's delivery was too good to miss! Check my bio plz

— Christianpark (@Christianp68126) June 10, 2023