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A day out from the ICC World Cup final, Australia’s top XI is a pressing issue, as a few changes could make the team better.
Seeing Shane Watson out the door and bringing in younger all-rounder Mitchell Marsh could be a stroke of genius.
Marsh has only played four World Cup games, and was a stand-out performer in only one. However his ability to come out to the crease and start firing straight way is a game-changer.
Against India neither Watson nor Michael Clarke made an immediate impact on the scoreboard. When Watson started hitting, his strike rate was almost up to a run a ball, but in a tough situation – such as the one Australia was in against India – a big hitter like Marsh or James Faulkner needs to come in before Watson.
Marsh deserves another chance and will prove himself on the big stage. His big hitting and death bowling could be a game changer against New Zealand, who haven’t seen the best of him.
What to do with Mitchell Johnson is hard. Last time he played the Black Caps he bowled six overs at 11.33 per over, but since then he has turned his performances around, helping Australia to victory against India.
Johnson is also a bigger hitter and adds depth to the batting line-up.
So do they risk that his bowling will be good enough, or bring in Pat Cummins, who is younger, has a much nicer bowling action, and will bowl stump to stump.
If Marsh is brought in, retaining Johnson is the right move.
My line-up
David Warner
Aaron Finch
Steve Smith
Michael Clarke
Glenn Maxwell
Mitch Marsh
James Faulkner
Brad Haddin
Mitchell Johnson
Mitchell Starc
Josh Hazlewood
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