Australian star Marnus Labuschagne produced a performance to remember in the 2025 KFC T20 Max Final, guiding Redlands to a 41-run victory over Valleys at Allan Border Field, Brisbane. Known primarily for his batting, Labuschagne shocked opponents by delivering a match-winning hat-trick, sealing the championship in dramatic fashion.
Redlands had set Valleys a daunting target of 192 runs. Despite opener Max Bryant’s explosive 76 off 38 balls, Valleys faltered under scoreboard pressure and were eventually dismissed for 150 in 17.2 overs. Labuschagne’s late intervention with the ball proved decisive, turning the contest firmly in Redlands’ favour.
How Marnus Labuschagne’s hat-trick unfolded?
The highlight of the night came when Labuschagne, often hailed for his consistency with the bat, showcased his bowling skills in a breathtaking three-ball spell.
- First wicket: He dismissed Lance Morris, who edged behind for 17 while attempting to guide the ball fine.
- Second wicket: Next ball, Cameron Boyce tried to clear the boundary but found the fielder in the deep, handing Redlands another crucial breakthrough.
- Third wicket: Labuschagne then clean bowled Tom Hallion, completing a rare hat-trick and sparking jubilant celebrations among teammates and fans.
With that over, Valleys’ resistance crumbled, and their hopes of chasing down the total were extinguished. What made the moment even more special was the context of the match – a high-pressure final with everything on the line.
Here’s the video:
Marnus Labuschagne hat trick?
Marnus Labuschagne hat trick!
He finished the game off in the KFC T20 Max Final to give Redlands the win over Valleys.
Watch the full replay on 7plus: https://t.co/FbUhjSYlqA pic.twitter.com/TdYCcVkoex
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) September 7, 2025
Max Bryan guides Redlands to a commanding total
Earlier in the game, Redlands put together a commanding total of 191 runs, thanks to contributions across the batting order. The score provided their bowlers with enough cushion to attack freely.
For Valleys, Max Bryant was the lone warrior. His belligerent knock of 76 off just 38 balls, laced with boundaries and sixes, kept Valleys alive during the chase. However, once Labuschagne broke through with his magical spell, Valleys had no answers and folded meekly.
The match once again highlighted Redlands’ depth and balance as a side. Their batting gave them a healthy platform, and their bowling attack, led by Labuschagne’s heroics, ensured the title stayed out of Valleys’ reach.
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Labuschagne strengthen case for return in T20Is
This hat-trick capped off a remarkable week for Labuschagne, who just days earlier had scored a brilliant century for Redlands in KFC T20 Max 2025. With his all-round display in the final, he has once again reminded selectors of his value not just as a top-order batter, but also as a versatile cricketer capable of delivering with the ball in crunch situations.
Labuschagne has long been seen as one of Australia’s most dependable Test players. However, performances like these in shorter formats could strengthen his case for inclusion in the national white-ball squads, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching in 2026. His ability to contribute across departments could provide the selectors with the flexibility they often look for in modern T20 cricket.
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