Aussie coach counting on Marsh brothers for Tests against India
India left for Australia yesterday, for the upcoming tour that starts with three T20Is from November 21. The major battle will be the four-match Test series. India have already lost two overseas Test series, this year, against South Africa and England. Now another crucial challenge lies ahead. Australia coach Justin Langer, meanwhile, feels that the impact of Marsh brothers could be pivotal.
India play four Tests starting December 6
The four-Test series is set to begin on December 6 at the Adelaide Oval. The second Test will be held at the Perth Stadium from from December 14 onwards. MCG will host the Boxing Day Test with the final match being at the SCG.
Onus will be on Marsh brothers to deliver the goods
The onus will be on the experienced Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, to light up the proceedings. In the absence of experienced cricketers Steve Smith and David Warner, it will be upon Shaun to get the crucial runs against a quality Indian attack. Mitchell, on the other hand, is known for his all-round attributes and can dominate proceedings any time during the game.
'One can't get distracted by the noise outside'
According to a report, Langer has urged Shaun and Mitchell to block out public criticism mentally and continue to score runs. "That noise we're talking about, you can't get distracted by it. Mental toughness and concentration is about letting go. Do your thing, enjoy what you're doing and when he (Marsh) does it, there's no better player in Australia."
Shaun battles poor form to come good
After a disastrous tour against Pakistan, the left-handed Shaun got back among the runs in the JLT Sheffield Shield. He then hit a sublime ton against South Africa in the recently concluded ODI series. Shaun is expected to lead the batting line-up against India.
Like Shaun, his brother dominated in first-class cricket
Meanwhile, Shaun's brother Mitchell also endured a poor Test series against Pakistan in the UAE. He then responded with a blistering 151 in the JLT Sheffield Shield last week. Langer said Mitchell needs to focus. "Mitch had a poor series against Pakistan, not a great series against South Africa but his first-class cricket in recent times is as good as anyone," Langer stated.
Langer wants to see lot more of the duo
"They're both very talented players and both very good young men so let's just hope they continue their good form and we see a lot more of them," said the Aussie coach.
