Marsh expected to have a bigger role with the ball, says Cummins as skipper talks about managing bowling resources.
Marsh expected to bowl and have a bigger role with the ball in the series.
As he went about his many media responsibilities on the eve of the first Test, Australia captain Pat Cummins seemed incredibly at ease and seemed to be wearing a perpetual smile.
He seemed to have excellent cause to relax. Australia’s XI has been set since July, but a lot of attention has been on India’s lineup uncertainties leading up to the series. The competition to join Usman Khawaja at the top of the order was won by Nathan McSweeney.
With a lot of preparation done in advance to help them get through a demanding five-match series contested in seven weeks, the team is seasoned and somewhat rejuvenated.
The fitness of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has only bowled four overs since hurting his hamstring during the IPL, is the reason for concern, though.
Prior to the second Shield match against Tasmania. Marsh had stated in public that he would resume bowling, but his body was not yet prepared. Since Cameron Green missed the entire series owing to a stress fracture in his back, his job with the ball has become increasingly important for Australia.
“He will definitely bowl this Test. He is an allrounder and with the way us four bowlers set out. We never really budget around an allrounder bowling heaps,” Cummins said.
The 33-year-old Marsh will likely be used in a few brief bursts. Perhaps early in the innings due to his outswinging ability. And also around the 60-70 over mark with the old ball.
“We never put an upper limit [on overs] on anyone,” Cummins said. “But he’s ready to go and happy to bowl as much as we need. I would imagine a few spells each innings. He’s been bowling great this week, his body is the best it has been for a while.”