'He is such a...': Australia star's blunt take on Ben Stokes' verbal spat with Marnus Labuschagne on Day 2

Marnus Labuschagne was involved in a heated verbal exchange with Ben Stokes on Day 2 of the penultimate Ashes Test. The incident happened just a few overs before Stumps was called. The duo exchanged words on field as the atmosphere got very tense at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Stokes eventually had the last laugh as he got rid of Labuschagne for 48 runs and Australia lost a crucial wicket just a few overs before the end of day's play. This dismissal also brought an end to the 105-run stand between Travis Head and Labuschagne. However, Australia pacer Michael Neser downplayed the incident, stating that Labuschagne is a very strong competitor and can get under the skin of opposing players due to his on-field actions.

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“Not a clue. It’s just the fact that he’s such a strong competitor that he can get under your skin. It’s just Marnus for you," Neser told reporters after the end of Day 2.

Neser's verdict on Labuschagne's bowling

Labuschagne had earlier impressed with the ball as well and had clinched the big wicket of Jamie Smith for 46 runs. The part-timer was brought in as a surprise package and he delivered big time. The wicket saw the 94-run partnership between Joe Root and Smith come to an end. Neser said that it wasn't surprising that Labuschagne ended up getting a wicket and pointed out that he has got quite a few wickets in the Sheffield Shield.

“He loves bowling. We’ve seen it in (Sheffield) Shield cricket. It’s not a surprise to us, because he’s actually done that role quite often in Shield cricket and got a fair few wickets bowling short," Neser stated.

Head puts England on the back-foot

Meanwhile, Australia came in to bat after England got bundled out for 384 runs in their first innings. Head continued his superb form in the series and played an explosive innings of 91 runs from just 87 deliveries as the hosts finished off Day 2 on 166/2, trailing 218 runs behind Stokes & Co. The left-hand batter will have the chance of registering his third century of the series as the action resumes on the third day.