Aussie all-rounder Mitchell Marsh hopes David Warner returns to the opening spot for their upcoming ODI series. The Western Australian admitted that he enjoyed opening the batting for Australia and that it gives them the flexibility they need ahead of the World Cup.
Marsh opened the batting in all three ODIs against India as Warner sat out the first two games due to injury. The 31-year-old won the Player of the Series award for his 194 runs in three matches at 97 and he did so with a strike rate of 131.08.
Speaking at a press conference after the third ODI in Chennai, Marsh acknowledged that Warner has been a giant in ODIs and should return at some point. However, in the meantime, he enjoyed playing the role of Australia.
As quoted by Cricbuzz, he said:
“I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to open up the hitting, but as a group we talked before the first game that this is really the start of our World Cup campaign. Certain guys hit different positions sometimes and it’s really important that we have a mindset squadron, so with Davey gone, it was my chance.”
Marshall added:
“He’s been an amazing player for Australia for a long time and one of the best ODI openers so I’m sure he’ll come back in at some point, but I think it’s really important that we’re all really flexible and it was nice acting for him. equipment”.
Although Warner returned to the side for the ODI final in Chennai, he batted in the middle order and made 23 before falling to Kuldeep Yadav.
“He’s one of the most resilient characters I know” – Mitchell Marsh on Ashton Agar
Reflecting on Ashton Agar’s inspired spell to stifle India in the third ODI, Marsh said it was the left-arm spinner’s stamina that allowed him to perform in such circumstances.
“It’s certainly been a nonchalant six weeks for him, but Ash is one of my closest companions. He’s one of the most resilient characters I know. That’s why he gets to come and perform every time he plays for Australia. He’s been second Adam Zampa’s spinner for a long period of time, but one of his strengths is his ability to be there when he plays and competes.”
Agar’s spell ending proved to be a game changer as he got the crucial wickets from Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav. India ultimately fell short by 21 runs, allowing Australia to claim the series.