Run-machine Labuschagne in form of his life ahead of Ashes series

Australia's Marnus Labuschagne slammed a fifth century in eight innings, firing an ominous warning shot ahead of the Ashes with some of the richest form of his life.

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The Queensland captain was dropped ahead of Australia’s midyear Test tour of the West Indies after an extended lean spell.

But he has come roaring back, hitting 101 from 111 balls against New South Wales in a one-day game at Sydney on Monday.

It was the 31-year-old’s third hundred this season in the 50-over format, to go with two in the red-ball Sheffield Shield.

“The only one I can think of is probably 2019 at Glamorgan as a period of time,” Labuschagne told reporters when asked if this period was his best ever run of form.

“But probably not across both formats.

“With both formats I feel like my batting is in a really nice place, just trusting my skills and trusting myself out there ... It’s all coming together.”

Labuschagne’s stunning run makes him an almost certain starter in the first Test against England at Perth on Nov. 21, but at what position he bats remains to be seen.