Australia coach defends Mitchell Marsh amid widespread calls to drop all-rounder

Australian coach Andrew McDonald has defended all-rounder Mitchell Marsh despite mounting criticism and widespread calls to drop him from the playing XI for the fifth and final Test in Sydney.

Marsh has endured a dismal run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, averaging just 10.42 with the bat and managing only one double-digit score across seven innings.

This marks the second-lowest batting average by an Australian in a home Test series (minimum seven innings), behind only Kim Hughes’ 10.12 during the 1984-85 season. Marsh’s contribution with the ball has also been minimal, apart from a couple of early wickets in Perth. Speculation about Marsh’s fitness has circulated, but McDonald dismissed concerns of an injury, attributing Marsh’s limited bowling involvement to tactical decisions.

“We haven’t required him with the ball as often as what we would have thought. He bowled again today. His speeds are up in the high 120s. There are no injury concerns there,” McDonald said during a media interaction on Monday.

“I think to sort of head that down that angle is a little bit unfair. We just haven’t required him at certain times for whatever reason, so that’s more a tactical implementation, as opposed to a body. “I think the amount of overs that we’ve been bowling across the series is probably going to be a benefit to us.”

Marsh’s inclusion in the Test team came as a replacement for Cameron Green, who missed the series due to back issues. However, with Green unavailable, Marsh’s poor form has led to growing arguments for his exclusion, especially as Australia seeks to maintain their 2-1 series lead.

Complicating the selection dilemma is the potential unavailability of paceman Mitchell Starc, who may miss the Sydney Test due to injury. This could deter selectors from making multiple changes to a team fresh off a victory in Melbourne.

McDonald acknowledged Marsh’s struggles but noted his positive attitude within the camp. “Would he like better performances? Of course,” McDonald said. “But he’s in a good headspace after the win in Melbourne.”

Should Marsh be dropped, all-rounder Beau Webster is on standby for a potential Test debut. Captain Pat Cummins is expected to confirm the final XI either on Thursday or at the toss on Friday.

The SCG Test, beginning Friday, will determine whether Marsh retains his place or if Australia opts for a reshuffle in their quest to secure the series.