Marnus Labuschagne has thrown his support behind Sam Konstas, saying the young opener will enjoy a long international career even if he doesn’t feature in this summer’s Ashes.

Labuschagne’s stunning run continued on Monday when he peeled off his fifth century in eight innings for Queensland this season – across red and white ball formats – as the Bulls beat NSW by 96 runs in a one-day match at Cricket Central in Sydney.

Konstas, meanwhile, made 47 as the Blues lost 8-68 to be bowled out for 191 in reply to Queensland’s 9-287.

With Australia’s Ashes squad set to be named this week, likely on Wednesday, Labuschagne underlined his imperious form with a gritty 101 after surviving a close lbw shout in his innings.

Since being axed from the Test team for Australia’s tour of the West Indies,

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