AUSTRALIAN cricket star Marnus Labuschagne will return to where it all began when he lines-up for Redlands Tigers in the opening round of the Queensland premier grade cricket season next month.
The 27-year-old will be joined by home-grown state cricketers Sam Heazlett, James Peirson and James Bazley as they take on Brisbane powerhouse Valley at Peter Burge Oval on September 4.
Labuschagne - who sits third in the world Test batting rankings - had another impressive season in Australian colours last year against India, scoring 426 runs at 53.25 in four tests.
The opening game of the premier cricket season comes less than two months out from the start of the Test summer, which will see England tour Australian shores for the Ashes.
South-African born Labuschagne is likely to take up his usual position in the side at number three, barring injury.
Redlands Tigers president Sean Lloyd said the club was proud to have Labuschagne back on home soil for the opening round of the season.
"Marnus has been training the house down and I'm sure this is the beginning of his march to the number one position in the international cricket batting rankings," he said.
"It all starts here where he began his career."
Queensland Cricket will be heavily involved in the opening game of the season, running activities for children and supporters.
The match will be broadcast live with commentary on streaming platform Kayo.
Lloyd said Redlands securing the opening match of the season was a vote of confidence in the club's facilities.
"We know Queensland is where Australia produces it's best cricketers and we're proud to have Marnus Labuschagne back with us in the opening round," he said.
" ... It will be a great family day out for everyone with kids activities zones, and plenty of food and drink."
The Wynnum Manly and Redlands first grade women's team will kick off their season on Sunday, September 5 against Ipswich.
The match, to be played on Peter Burge Oval from 10am, will feature the likes of Chelsea Gan, Amy Riddell and Ellie Ruth Johnston.
Former Australian player Usman Khawaja will line-up for Valley in the men's first grade game, along with state cricketers Mark Steketee, Lachlan Pfeffer and Jack Wildermuth.
Read more local sport news here.
