AUS vs ENG: Tensions flare at SCG as Ben Stokes confronts Marnus Labuschagne [Watch Video]

Ben Stokes engaged in a verbal altercation with Marnus Labuschagne on day 2.

The 5th test of The Ashes 2025-26 between the Australian Cricket Team and England Cricket Team (AUS vs ENG) got underway on Sunday, January 4, at Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. On day 2 of the match, England captain Ben Stokes engaged in a big verbal banter with Marnus Labuschagne on the field.

The incident occurred in the third session on Day 2 of the match on Monday, January 4. In the 29th over of Australia‘s batting, Stokes bowled his last delivery to Travis Head, and the latter hit him for a boundary. Stokes was disappointed after Head’s shot and minced a few words at him.

Marnus Labuschagne, who was at the non-strikers’ end, got involved in a verbal banter with Stokes as the duo exchanged a few words. The England captain wrapped his arms around Labuschagne’s shoulder and squeezed it lightly, uttering a few words in his ear.

Watch: Ben Stokes and Marnus Labuschagne engage in verbal banter in the Sydney test

The on-field umpires intervened to de-escalate the incident; however, the banter ended in a friendly manner. The video of the moment went viral on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Speaking about the match, Stokes won the toss and opted to bat first in the clash. With a stunning century by Joe Root (160), the visitors piled up 384/10 in the first innings. Harry Brook (84) also made a crucial contribution with the bat.

Later, Head gave a wonderful start to Australia’s batting, hitting an unbeaten 91 runs off 87 deliveries. Labuschagne got out for 48 runs, as Australia reached 166/2 at the stumps of day 2. They trail by 218 runs in the clash.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.