Last The Ashes 2025-26 The Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) has reached its peak. Whereas Australia Dominate to reach 518/7 on third day, international spotlight rests on high-voltage clash between England captain Ben Stokes and Australia’s Marnus LabuschagneThe exchange, in which a frustrated Stokes physically confronted Labuschagne by placing his hand on his shoulder, highlighted the growing tension as England struggled to break down the Australian top order,
Stuart Broad reveals the real reason behind the heated exchange between Ben Stokes and Marnus Labuschagne
Former England fast bowler stuart broad provided the definitive inside account of the fiery exchange, which suggests it was a deliberate attempt to harass Labuschagne. Speaking on January 6, 2026, Broad revealed that he had spoken to Ben Stokes before the start of Day 3 to clarify ‘inside Story.’
Broad detailed that Labuschagne was acting as an unofficial third umpire, which pushed Stokes to his limits. Broad said Labuschagne tried to talk to his partner, travis headAnd his constant chatter received a sharp response from the England captain. Broad emphasized that taking the batsman out of his bubble was the primary objective of England’s psychological warfare.
“I’ve spoken to Stokes this morning. I’m not breaking any confidence by saying this. It was Marnus who was saying, ‘Oh, it’s going down leg’ or ‘That’s four runs’, and Stokes responded, ‘We’ve got two umpires here, we don’t need three.’ So it was all quite polite, but what happens is it takes Labuschagne out of his bubble, and it’s an England ball.” The plan is to get him out of his routine. Next ball, Ben.” Stokes bowls, he drives it which is a bit wide, moves away and he is out.” Broad said on 7Cricket.
Ashes 2025-26: A neck-and-neck game that backfired
The confrontation reached its peak late on the second day when Stokes, clearly angered by Labuschagne’s delaying tactics, stepped forward and wrapped his arm around the Australian’s shoulder. According to witnesses and lip-readers, the exchange was not friendly, with Stokes reportedly asking Labuschagne to do so. ‘Shut Up’ The batsman then continued to argue about the fading light. Stokes was also heard saying in Ricky Ponting’s commentary on Channel 7, “Three times, three times you have done this to me,” Referring to Labuschagne’s retreat during the bowler’s run-up.
When ‘neck squeezer’ This gesture was criticized by Australian veterans brett lee And adam gilchristUltimately the plan came to fruition. On the very next ball after a heated exchange, a distracted Labuschagne played a loose drive and was caught at gully for 48. Despite this tactical victory, Australia’s middle order took full advantage of England’s tiring attack on the third day. travis head scored an impressive 163 runs, while steve smith He gave his best performance by scoring an unbeaten 129*, giving Australia a huge lead of 134 runs at stumps.
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