Daily Times

SYDNEY: Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has shown optimism in gaining full fitness ahead of the series against Pakistan later this year. The Baggy Greens will face the Men in Green in the United Arab Emirates in two Tests, five ODIs and one T20I in October. Marsh, who injured his ankle earlier in the year and went through surgery, is yet to resume bowling again. However, in the absence of the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner, Marsh’s presence both as a bowler and as a middle-order batsman can prove to be of pivotal importance in the upcoming series.

The 26-year-old, while talking to Cricket.com.au, shared news about his potential return for the cricket fans in the country. “From my perspective and where I see the plan, I’ll be fully fit for that tour,” said Marsh. “I’ve still got 12 weeks and I’ll start bowling in three weeks. So I believe I’ll be fully fit for that tour. My ankle is honestly feeling great and I’ve had no setbacks so far. I think the all-rounder role is going to be really important if we’re going to go with two spin options in those conditions.”

Marsh had numerous struggles with injuries over the years, but he believes his body is finally matured enough to bear the responsibility of a fast bowling all-rounder. “I’ve been through it a few times now so it’s nothing I don’t know,” he said. “I’m not concerned. Where my body’s at now, it’s a lot more mature when it comes to being able to get up to speed a bit faster. I know that generally speaking, when I get up to my long run, I need about 4-6 weeks to start to feel my rhythm. That will give me plenty of time to do that.”

Published in Daily Times, July 13^th 2018.