Sydney, Jan. 5 -- Marnus Labuschagne was at the centre of attention on Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, making his presence felt with both bat and ball while also engaging in a fiery on-field exchange with England captain Ben Stokes late on Monday.

The Australian batter appeared to get under Stokes' skin during a heated moment just before stumps while he was batting. However, Stokes had the final say as he dismissed Labuschagne for 48 in the first innings, denying him a half-century. Labuschagne's knock came off 68 deliveries and played a key role in Australia's reply.

When asked about the confrontation during the post-day press conference, Michael Neser brushed aside the incident, "Not a clue..."

He later explained Labuschagne...