Ahead of the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide, Australia skipper Pat Cummins provided a fitness update on all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, confirming that there are no major concerns regarding his condition. Marsh, who has been battling back stiffness since the ODI series against England in September, has been a key player for Australia in recent times. Despite the injury, Cummins expressed confidence that Marsh would be fit to bowl in the Adelaide Test.
In his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Cummins clarified that while Marsh has been dealing with this back issue for a while, it is not a “huge concern.” He mentioned that Marsh has been working hard to manage the injury over the last few months and would warm up on Friday before the Test match. Cummins also emphasized that Marsh’s approach will be to prioritize his overs during the game rather than overexerting himself in the nets.
“It’s not a huge concern. You probably need to speak to the physio, but it’s back stiffness. It’s kind of since the ODIs in England. I think he didn’t bowl in a couple of games over there and he’s desperately trying to work on that for the last few months,” said Cummins. “He will warm up tomorrow, and I’m pretty confident that he will be ready for the game.”
Marsh’s inclusion in the playing eleven is crucial for Australia. Since returning to the side during the 2023 Ashes, his batting has been a significant asset, averaging 40 with the bat. His all-round ability offers Australia much-needed depth in both the batting and bowling departments.
Injury Concerns for Hazlewood and Marsh aside, Australia made one other key change to their squad. Scott Boland has been added to the playing eleven to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained an injury during the first Test in Perth. Boland, who hasn’t played a Test for Australia since the Ashes earlier this year, will be keen to impress in his return to the side. His experience, especially in conditions like those at Adelaide, could prove vital.
Despite Australia’s 295-run loss in Perth, where India staged a stunning comeback, the hosts will hope for a strong bounce-back performance in Adelaide, a ground where they have traditionally been strong, especially with the pink ball.
Australia Playing XI for the Second Test:
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitch Marsh
- Alex Carey (WK)
- Pat Cummins (C)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Scott Boland
As the second Test gets underway on December 6 in Adelaide, both teams will look to make their mark. India, coming off a dominant win in Perth, will be confident, while Australia, bolstered by Marsh’s inclusion and Boland’s return, will be aiming to bounce back and level the series.
