Last Updated on 4 years ago by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Will Mitchell Marsh bowl for Australia in the T20 World Cup? | A look at whether Mitchell Marsh will bowl in the 2022 T20 World Cup
Australia have received a major boost ahead of their league stage encounter against Sri Lanka with all-rounder Mitchell Marsh declaring himself fit to bowl on Tuesday.
“I’m available to bowl. I love preparing as an all-rounder and making sure I’m in the game the whole time,” the 31-year-old was quoted in a report by ESPNcricinfo.
Marsh hasn’t bowled since Australia’s ODI series against New Zealand in August and he has just recovered from a long-drawn ankle injury. He will add another dimension to the bowling unit as Aaron Finch will look to plug the gaps in the attack that conceded 200 in 20 overs against New Zealand on Saturday.
Marsh added, “I think with me bowling, it gives us that added flexibility of myself, Maxi or Stoin can get four overs out. And we can bowl anywhere.”
With Mitch Marsh available to bowl, Australia need to bounce back
Australia suffered a crushing 89-run loss in their opening game of the tournament against the Kiwis at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). That defeat has put them in a precarious position with their net run rate (NRR) standing at -4.450 currently.
Even a victory in each of their remaining five group stage matches does not ensure them of a place in the semi-finals of the tournament. However, the defending champions are looking to gather some confidence from having their backs pushed against the wall.
“We don’t really have a choice. The nature of the tournament…you lose one game, your back is up against the wall and we know what’s in front of us. It’s just really important to stick together,” the all-rounder reflected on the current scheme of things.
Marsh has backed Australia’s pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins to tear apart the Sri Lankan batting unit in the fast-paced pitch at the Optus Stadium. The threat of Wanindu Hasaranga is looming large over the home side. Marsh has, however, expressed hope that spin might not play a major role at the Perth Stadium.
“We play spin very well in Australian conditions,” he asserted as Australia gears up to face the incumbent Asia Cup champions in this must-win clash.
