Ashes 2023: Mitchell Marsh’s confidence makes him a dangerous player, says Marnus Labuschagne

Mitchell Marsh’s remarkable resurgence as a crucial player for Australia in the 2023 Ashes series has turned heads and silenced doubters.

From being the last man selected for the tour, initially considered an understudy to Cameron Green, Marsh has transformed into one of the team’s most indispensable players.

In the absence of Green due to a hamstring injury, Marsh stepped up to the plate and showcased his all-round abilities in the third Test. In just four innings since being included in the playing XI, Marsh has scored an impressive 228 runs at an average of 76, outperforming Green, who managed 103 runs at an average of 20.60.

Marsh also displayed his bowling prowess by dismissing Zac Crawley, the leading run-scorer of the series, in both innings of the third Test.

Part of Marsh’s success can be attributed to his experience, having previously dealt with the pressures of high-stakes cricket like the Indian Premier League. This experience has undoubtedly contributed to his composure and consistency in the Ashes series.

However, the question now arises of whether there will be room for both Green and Marsh in the Test XI moving forward. The Australian team’s struggles without a spinner in the fourth Test have led to uncertainties about the team composition for future matches.

Marsh’s teammate, Marnus Labuschagne, believes that Marsh’s strong form in limited-overs cricket has played a crucial role in his Test resurgence. His confidence in his game and trust in his abilities have made him a dangerous player, as evident in his contributions during the Ashes series.

“Seeing him bat, even in the one-dayers, and seeing him bat in the nets, and the confidence he has in his game at the moment, I definitely had no doubt when he came in (to the Test side) the way he was going to play,” Labuschagne, who stitched 103-run stand with Marsh, said.

“The confidence he has in his own game â€æ He’s got so much trust in the way he’s playing. When it is like that, it makes you a dangerous player.”

As the fourth Test reaches its conclusion, Marsh’s performances have been vital in providing Australia with hope for a potential stalemate. The team will be eager to retain his services in the upcoming series finale at The Oval and beyond, given his consistent and match-winning performances.