Mitchell Johnson Urges Marsh to Decide on Red-Ball Cricket and Bowling Role

New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) Former Australian fast-bowler Mitchell Johnson stated that all-rounder Mitchell Marsh must determine if he still wants to participate in red-ball cricket and, more crucially, if he can manage bowling responsibilities.

Marsh was excluded from Australia’s squad for the fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against India after accumulating 73 runs over four matches and subsequently missed the team's Champions Trophy campaign due to a back injury.

However, Marsh has successfully returned to play for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, posting scores of 72, 52, and a duck. As an impact player, Marsh has not been required to field during IPL 2025. Nevertheless, he has been included in Australia’s list of contracted players for the 2025/26 season.

George Bailey, the selection chair, believes that the sidelined Test all-rounder Mitch Marsh could have a chance to make a comeback in next summer’s Ashes series. However, before that, Marsh needs to reflect on some significant questions this winter.

At 33, Marsh has been excelling in the Indian Premier League. Yet, coming in as an impact substitute—who does not need to bowl or field—and hitting the ball is vastly different from the challenges of an Ashes series.

“The big West Aussie needs to decide whether he wants to continue playing red-ball cricket and if his body will permit him to keep bowling in any format. Beau Webster and the soon-to-return Cam Green are currently ahead of him, but a couple of injuries could quickly bring Marsh back into the frame if his form remains strong,” Johnson wrote in his column for The Nightly on Thursday.

Marsh, a pivotal member of Australia’s white-ball teams, including serving as the T20I captain, has a proven track record against England in Tests, maintaining an average of 47.07 over 10 matches against them, compared to his overall red-ball career average of 28.53.

“All three of Marsh’s Test centuries have been against England, and he had an immediate impact when called upon during the last Ashes series. The selectors will certainly remember that. Marsh has numerous factors to consider regarding his priorities, physical condition, and the temptation to become a white-ball specialist to prolong his career. However, if he genuinely wishes to return to Test cricket, I believe he can,” Johnson added.

Johnson also expressed his satisfaction in seeing left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann receive a central contract, despite the concerns surrounding his bowling action. He believes Kuhnemann will play a significant role once Nathan Lyon’s international career concludes.

“It’s heartening to see Kuhnemann secure a CA contract, especially after the turbulence following the Sri Lanka tour. Being reported for a suspicious bowling action can be intimidating, but this contract should boost his confidence. It’s also a sign of the selectors’ support for him, which is vital for any player, and he appears poised to be the next spinner in line for the Ashes should anything happen to Nathan Lyon.

“With Lyon, 37, nearing the end of his playing career, the pressure on Kuhnemann to step up is significant. Lyon plays dual roles for the team—serving as the primary spinner and mentoring those aspiring to take his position. It’s reminiscent of the transition following Shane Warne’s retirement.

“The quest for the next standout spinner will be competitive, with others like Murphy, Mitch Swepson, and Corey Rocchiccioli also in contention. It’s crucial for these players to remain true to their natural game and maintain mental resilience despite external pressures. You never know when an opportunity might arise,” he concluded.