Mitchell Marsh said that he’s ready to shoulder the responsibilities of chipping in with handy overs in Australia’s upcoming five-match Test series against India. With Cameron Green in Australia’s Test setup, Marsh has become their fifth-choice seamer. But since Green would not be available for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after being ruled out due to a back injury, Marsh’s role with the ball might come in handy.
Marsh played a specialist batter in the Men’s T20 World Cup where Australia failed to make their way through to the semis. In fact, since sustaining an injury while playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year, Marsh has bowled only four overs in competitive cricket. But Marsh said that he has put in the hard yards to succeed as a bowler against India.
“I’ve been really well looked after. I’ve had a real luxury of having Cameron Green in the side over the last little period of time. Once we knew that he was out, it was all about building towards this first Test match,” Marsh was quoted as saying to 3AW on Monday.
“Really confident that I’ve put in enough work to be able to bowl. Over the last few years, the all-rounder hasn’t bowled a hell of a lot. But I think it’s just being ready to go, and being available for when (captain) Patty (Cummins) needs and when the boys need a bit of a chop out.
“I also just love competing with the ball and trying to make something happen. So I’m ready to go,” Marsh added.
In 42 Tests, Marsh has taken 48 wickets at an economy rate of 3.51 with a four-wicket haul and a five-wicket haul to his name.
The opening Test between India and Australia at the Perth Stadium is scheduled to start on November 22.
