Australia's star batter Marnus Labuschagne has decided to retire a cherished piece of cricket memorabilia—the bat he used in Australia's victorious 2023 World Cup final against India. The 30-year-old announced on social media that the bat, now in a broken state, will no longer see action. Labuschagne had scored an unbeaten fifty in the final, helping Australia secure their sixth World Cup title with a six-wicket win over India on November 19.
During the final, Australia found themselves in trouble at 47/3 while chasing a target of 241. Labuschagne came in and played a crucial role as an anchor, allowing Travis Head to take charge of the chase. While Head smashed 137 off 120 balls, Labuschagne provided steady support, remaining unbeaten on 58 off 110 balls. Their 192-run partnership was instrumental in securing Australia's victory.
Labuschagne shared an image of the bat on social media, revealing its rugged condition, with significant wear and tear visible in the middle and bottom of the bat.
The announcement brought back bittersweet memories for Indian fans, who had mixed reactions to Labuschagne's information.
One fan expressed frustration, lamenting that Labuschagne had saved such an important knock for the final against India: "We hate that bat and that innings, Marnus. We don't mind you playing well against England, but why India, why against India?"
Another fan reflected on the sentimental value of a bat, even for established cricketers, saying: "We used to think that only people like us who play in school, club, etc., keep such bats. The attachment is something like this—the favourite bat cannot be easily left behind. He is such a big player."
Labuschagne's decision to retire the bat highlights the emotional connection cricketers often have with their equipment, especially when it plays a role in historic moments like a World Cup final.