Following South Africa's series-clinching victory over Australia in the second ODI, Proteas fast bowler Lungi Ngidi revealed the strategy behind dismissing Marnus Labuschagne. Ngidi's inspired performance, which saw him take 5-42, played a crucial role in dismantling the Australian batting lineup and securing an 84-run win for his team.
Ngidi disclosed that the plan against Labuschagne was centered around exploiting the area outside off stump. He observed that Labuschagne had seemed vulnerable to deliveries shaping away from him, a weakness that was also evident during the World Test Championship final in June. "We've seen from the Test Championship (final), it seems outside off with the ball shaping away seems to be effective towards him," Ngidi stated.
The South African pacer recognized Labuschagne's tendency to leave the ball well, but also acknowledged the inherent pressure to score runs in ODI cricket. This understanding formed the basis of his tactic: to consistently probe that outside-off channel, compelling Labuschagne to play shots. "He does leave very well. But you need to score runs at some point in ODI cricket so you're probably going to feel outside off (stump)," Ngidi explained.
Ngidi emphasized the importance of maintaining a simple approach, focusing on hitting the right length and line. By persistently targeting the specified area, he aimed to induce a false stroke from the Australian batter. "Trying to keep it simple and plug away at that length and that line, and it seemed to come off. It went according to plan," he said. This strategy eventually paid off, with Labuschagne edging a delivery to the keeper.
Moreover, Ngidi highlighted the advantage of bowling in the second innings, allowing him to assess what strategies were effective. He noted how Australia's bowlers, particularly Nathan Ellis and Xavier Bartlett, had found success by swinging and nipping the ball around. By observing their "blueprint," Ngidi could implement a similar approach with greater precision. "The beautiful thing about bowling second is I get to sit there and watch what works," Ngidi said. "I saw (Nathan) Ellis' plan and he was pretty successful with that, so it gives you an idea of what's going to work later on in the innings".
Ngidi also emphasized the mental aspect of competing against a formidable team like Australia. He acknowledged the pressure they exert and the importance of staying mentally strong and fighting back. "(I focused on) staying strong mentally and trying to fight back. It's more a mental battle every time you play Australia," Ngidi added.
Lungi Ngidi's five-wicket haul was instrumental in South Africa's series-clinching victory. His ability to analyze the conditions, devise a clear strategy, and execute it effectively showcased his skills and contributed significantly to his team's success. His success against Labuschagne, a batter who averages 55.11 against South Africa before the match, highlights the effectiveness of Ngidi's plan and his ability to perform under pressure.
