Australia captain Mitchell Marsh expressed his enthusiasm on Saturday for the atmosphere of playing in “packed out stadiums” against an Indian side that will feature the return of legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
The white-ball series, comprising three ODIs and five T20Is, kicks off with the 50-over match in Perth on Sunday, serving as a crucial prelude for Australia before the Ashes series begins next month.
Praise for Indian Legends
Marsh acknowledged the stature of the returning Indian veterans and their immense drawing power.
“Had the privilege of playing against them quite a lot over the journey,” Marsh told the media. “They’re obviously legends of the game. Virat is the greatest chaser ever in this format. I think you can see by the ticket sales that a lot of people want to come and watch them.”
He added that the experience of playing in a full house against India would be invaluable for his squad. “To see the stadium packed out against India, it’s going to be a great experience for our group,” he said.
Tactics and Team News
Looking ahead to the opener, Marsh predicted a high-scoring contest but highlighted the critical nature of the new ball. “I believe it’s going to be a high-scoring affair, but getting through the first 10 overs for both teams will be a challenge and maybe where the game’s won and lost,” he stated.
Marsh confirmed the team composition for the first ODI, naming Matthew Short to bat at number three. “We know he opens for Victoria and Strikers and in T20 cricket around the world. But we see no difference between opening the batting and No. 3. We’re comfortable with him batting there,” he said.
Australia will be without several key players for the opening fixture, with Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and all-rounder Cameron Green all unavailable. Marsh sought to allay concerns over Green’s fitness, calling the all-rounder’s injury “very minor” and confirming the team is simply taking a cautious approach.
The team is also set to blood new talent, with Mitchell Owen and Matt Renshaw both in line to make their ODI debuts.
Finally, Marsh joked about his own chances of an Ashes Test recall despite the injuries, saying, “I’ve got tickets to day one and two. Haven’t asked the wife yet, so that’s about as much thought as I’ve given it.”