AUS vs ENG: Andrew McDonald Yet to Confirm Mitchell Marsh's Inclusion For The Ashes Finale At The Oval

Australia coach Andrew McDonald didn’t confirm all-rounder Mitchell Marsh’s participation in the fifth and final Test against England in the Ashes 2023 series. Andrew McDonald said that the team management will assess Mitchell Marsh’s fitness over the next couple of days.

Mitchell Marsh remained unbeaten in Australia’s second innings in the fourth Test at Old Trafford in Manchester. The right-handed batter formed a 103-run partnership with Marnus Labuschagne for the fifth wicket. However, he missed the third day of fielding due to soreness.

Also read: AUS vs ENG: Zak Crawley Fires Warning To Australia And Pat Cummins Ahead Of Oval Ashes Clash

I’m Not Going To Hide Mitchell Marsh’s Inclusion – Andrew McDonald

Speaking ahead of the fifth Test against England, Andrew McDonald admitted that Mitchell Marsh left the field on the third day due to soreness.

“He’s a little bit sore, hence why he was off the field,” Andrew McDonals said.

“So I’m not going to hide that. As to what extent, that will be assessed over the next couple of days,” he added.

Also read: AUS vs ENG: Brad Hogg Advocates For A Reserve Day In Tests After Manchester Draw

Runs Were Premium First And Foremost – Andrew McDonald

The 42-year-old stated that they haven’t finalized the team combination, but they will manage the workload of the fast bowlers. He indicated that Marsh wouldn’t fit in the lineup as a specialist batter.

“I’m not sure what we’re going to do. We haven’t seen the wicket yet. Does it impact his position in the team?”

“I think the team has played three quicks and one spinner before. We’ve gone that way numerous times in the past. We have had the luxury of all-rounders, or in particular Cameron Green that’s changed the shape of the team over time. Runs were premium first and foremost.”

The Pat Cummins-led team will lock horns with the Ben Stokes-led team in the final Test of the five-match series at the Oval in London starting on Thursday, July 27.

Also read: AUS vs ENG: “Mitchell Marsh Is A Great Option”- Adam Voges On Australia’s Next White-Ball Captain