Australian spin legend Shane Warne has issued a belated apology to Marnus Labuschagne for his scathing criticism that mistakenly went to air last week.

Warne and Andrew Symonds were caught mocking the Australian number three’s eccentric batting traits on Foxtel-owned streaming service Kayo.

The 51-year-old confirmed both he and ‘Roy’ Symonds had reached out to Labuschagne after copping substantial criticism once the expletive-laden discussion was broadcast.

“Marnus bats best when he forgets all the exaggeration stuff, like calling, “No”, “Yes” and “Wait on” really loudly and waving his bat around,” Warne told News Corp.

“I like it when he just bats — and that’s why I said to Andrew Symonds, that he should just bat properly.

“I’ve communicated with Marnus about what went to air last week and I would like to apologise for swearing on TV.

“Marnus had no issue. He thought it was funny. Andrew has also apologised to Marnus, too.”

The apology comes after Matthew Wade returned serve during the fourth Test, using the stumps microphone to fire back over the brutal exchange.

“I’ll be coaching you in 10 years if you’re playing and I’ll be saying ‘If you just had’ve taken Warnie and Roy’s advice back at the start, we wouldn’t be in this situation,” Wade quipped.

In a drastic change of tune, Warne went on to praise the Queenslander’s form following the third Test at the SCG.

“All of a sudden Marnus Labuschagne (293 runs) and Steve Smith (222) lead the series with the bat,” Warne said.

“I think Labuschagne can challenge Kane Williamson, Smith and Virat Kohli as the best batsman in the world, and he is currently fourth in the ICC rankings.”

The fourth Test is underway at the Gabba, with Australian opener Marcus Harris taking Will Pucovki’s place in the starting XI.

The last start debutant was ruled out with a shoulder injury.