Finch Doubts Australia's Selection of Marsh for Sydney Test Against India

New Delhi, Jan 1 (NationPress) Former Australia white-ball captain Aaron Finch is skeptical about the inclusion of Mitchell Marsh in the playing eleven for the upcoming final Test against India in Sydney, suggesting that uncapped Beau Webster should take his spot.

Marsh has bowled only 33 overs throughout the series, securing just three wickets. With the bat, his performance has been below par, accumulating merely 73 runs at an average of 10.42, with a top score of 47 in the second innings during the Perth Test.

“Considering the limited overs he has bowled, it would be challenging to justify his position in the team. His average of 10 throughout the series is not satisfactory. Andrew McDonald recently mentioned that this is not the level of performance expected from Mitch, especially in a crucial number six role that can significantly influence a match,” Finch stated during his appearance on ESPN’s ‘Around the Wicket’ show.

“However, the team's success allows them to retain players who might be slightly out of form, as they have previously proven their capabilities. For me, it's a tough decision, but I doubt they will stick with him and suspect Beau Webster will replace him,” Finch further elaborated.

Former Australian player Callum Ferguson echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I share the same instinct. We need to consider the shared workload among bowlers during the series, especially after Josh Hazlewood's early exit in a Test match, which increased the strain on the team.”

When asked about Mitchell Starc's fitness after he experienced discomfort towards the end of Australia’s thrilling 184-run victory in the fourth Test in Melbourne, which gave them a 2-1 series lead, Finch replied, “I believe he will be fine. He mentioned that after warming up, he felt okay, and Pat concurred that as long as it's not a muscle injury, he should be good to go.”

“It’s just those initial deliveries that can be painful. He likely pushed through on adrenaline during that last session, especially after bowling in the mid-140s towards the end of the fourth Test despite a heavy workload. I am confident he will definitely play,” Finch added.

Ferguson responded, “It’s crucial to manage these situations wisely. We have a series against Sri Lanka approaching, which will come up quickly. However, we shouldn't lose focus on the current series.”

Finch agreed, emphasizing, “This series is vital, and this Test match holds significant importance. While the Sri Lankan series is also important, selection should prioritize the immediate match.”

When asked if Marsh could be retained after Starc's inclusion, Finch remarked, “I don’t believe so, mainly due to workload considerations. Nathan Lyon will likely have a heavier workload with the spin-friendly conditions in Sydney. Travis Head may help alleviate some pressure.”

“If you bring in someone who is slightly injured and given Mitch's limited overs, it would be a tough choice. If an injury occurs, he wouldn’t manage more than a couple of overs,” Finch concluded.

Ferguson agreed, stating, “Absolutely, Finch. If we are moving forward with Starc, we need to find someone who can contribute more overs.”