Emerging star Mitch Marsh says it would be a dream come true to earn a crack at Test cricket, but he knows it will be tough to get a gig with Shane Watson still in the team.
Marsh is a step closer to living out his boyhood dream after being selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the two-Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates starting on October 22.
The 22-year-old starred during Australia’s recent one-day series against Zimbabwe and South Africa, averaging 55.5 and taking three wickets across the five games.
He also played a starring role for Australia A earlier this year to showcase his credentials.
However, with Watson nearing a return following a recent ankle injury, Marsh knows he will probably have to play second fiddle during the Test series.
“We all know that Shane Watson’s the first picked all-rounder in Australia, and he’s a world-class player,” Marsh said after touching down at Perth airport on Monday afternoon.
“The biggest thing for me is just being around him, working with him on and off the field.
“He’s been a great help for me.
“I’m excited about what’s to come. If I get a crack in Dubai, hopefully I can take my opportunity.
“It would be a dream come true.”
Marsh said he was a bit shocked to get the Test call-up, but he is desperate to make the most of it.
His No.1 goal is to have an injury-free summer, and he hopes to play a big role during the Perth Scorchers’ upcoming Twenty20 Champions League campaign in India, starting September 18.
Marsh will then fly straight to Dubai for T20 and one-day matches against Pakistan, before the Test series starts.
“It’s a lot of time away from home, but I wouldn’t change it for anything. I’m loving every minute of it,” Marsh said.
Jammel
Guest
Agreed Larney
Larney
Guest
Because he has had a few good ODI innings makes him ready for tests? It is a completely different game. Potential yes, but in time.
brye
Guest
This is a good time for the transition for Marsh to replace Watson. While there are many who can't wait to see Watson gone, he has made significant contributions as a bowler & fielder even though his batting has been below par. That said, there has not been anyone up to an acceptable standard to knock him out. Now is the time for Marsh to cement his place or I see the seletors staying with the status quo and wait for someone else. Phil Hughes is another who needs to lift in all areas, and if he wants to challenge for regular spot he must lift. Australia has the potential right now to become a dominant team in all three styles, but those fringe players must now work even harder and place pressure on those in the current Aust team. Whilst on many occassions, I have been perplexed by the seletors decisions, one problem they face with the next crop of players is the inability of these guys to lift to that next level. This current team will probably be around till the next Ashes and then we will see a radically different (younger) team come through over the next couple of seasons. Its an exciting time for Australia cricket and the men need to raise the bar like our women cricketers are doing on a regular basis (especially in the junior levels).