December 4, 2024: Australia’s veteran spinner, Nathan Lyon, has backed Mitchell Marsh to play a crucial role with the ball in the upcoming pink-ball Test against India in Adelaide, beginning on Friday. Lyon’s comments come amid concerns over Marsh’s fitness, which has been a point of discussion as the squad prepares for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Marsh’s return to the Australian squad has been pivotal, particularly with his excellent batting form, which has seen him average 40 since his return during last year’s Ashes. However, with the added pressure of his fitness, the addition of uncapped all-rounder Beau Webster to the squad has raised questions about Marsh’s availability, especially with the pink ball.
Despite this, Lyon is confident that Marsh will feature and contribute with the ball. The 35-year-old spinner has been a steady presence alongside Cameron Green and Marsh in recent times, and he believes the all-rounder will continue his impressive impact on both ends. Lyon stated, “I honestly think we’ll see Mitch Marsh bowl. I’m not concerned about Bison’s fitness if I’m being honest. He’s been brilliant for us since he’s come back in. He came [back] in that game in Leeds during the Ashes and [has] really dominated, so got full confidence in Bison. Happy to bowl his overs.”
Lyon’s endorsement highlights Marsh’s value to the squad, as the all-rounder has made a significant contribution with the bat and is expected to be a valuable asset with the ball, particularly in the unique conditions of a pink-ball Test. With Josh Hazlewood sidelined due to a mild side strain, Marsh’s bowling will be more critical for Australia, especially with Scott Boland expected to replace Hazlewood in the starting XI.
Lyon also reflected on his own role within the team, emphasizing his flexibility and confidence in his contribution. He said, “I’m very clear on my role within the team. Nothing really changes with me…if I can get the opportunity to bowl more overs, I’ll jump at it.” Lyon, with his vast experience, will be relied upon to lead Australia’s spin attack and can switch between an attacking and defensive role, depending on the situation during the match.
Looking back at Australia’s disappointing 295-run loss to India in the series opener in Perth, Lyon acknowledged the team’s subpar performance but remained optimistic. “We understand that we didn’t play our best cricket in Perth, and India totally outplayed us. But with all the other stuff, it’s been quite humorous in a way looking at how much has been said and the reactions of so many different people after one loss,” he remarked.
He stressed the importance of the five-match series, pointing out that the second Test presents a new opportunity to turn things around. “The beauty of a five-match Test series…is you get the opportunity to turn that around, and that’s the challenge of what we face right now. We are coming up against a world-class India side that played an exceptional game of cricket over in Perth, but that’s been nine days or so ago now, so come Friday, we go again, which I’m excited about,” he added.
As Australia looks to bounce back and level the series, the pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval promises to be a thrilling encounter. With Mitchell Marsh’s all-round skills expected to come to the fore and Lyon’s leadership with the ball, the hosts will be eager to challenge India and get back on track in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.