Brad Hodge unhappy as Mitchell Marsh replaces Peter Handscomb in the 3rd Test

Australia veteran Brad Hodge showed his displeasure over the axing for right-handed batsman Peter Handscomb for the third Test at the WACA. The pitch at the WACA supports the quick bowlers and that’s what prompted Australia skipper Steve Smith to make the change. He had said that the WACA pitch will determine If they want to go for that extra seamer who can share the workload of the three quick bowlers Starc, Hazelwood, and Cummins.

England had declared their playing XI earlier in the evening. Joe Root won his third toss in a row and opted to bat first. Smith during the conversation confirmed that Marsh is back in the side replacing the 26-year-old Handscomb for the third Ashes Test. Australia had won the first two games where Handscomb had scored 14 runs in the first game and 36 and 12 in both the innings respectively in the second game.

Speaking about the axing, Hodge said that It was “heartbreaking”. Handscomb who averages 47.35 with the bat was having trouble handling the English bowlers. Although Smith had indicated that decision of bringing Marsh in the side has nothing to do with the former’s batting but the conditions at the WACA are the main reason.

Speaking to cricket.com.au, Hodge said, “It’s heartbreaking, it really is.” “One of the things he’ll look at is ‘Well, I’m averaging 47 in Test match cricket – how’s that bad?” he added.

Should’ve got one more game

“In my opinion, he should have got another Test. His technique is the same as it was six months ago – it’s just that he’s getting out,” the 42-year-old stated. He questioned if people outside have already made their mind that Handscomb will not score runs.

“I don’t think Australia’s bowling issue is a problem. I think people outside have just made a judgment call looking at his technique, thinking, well at the moment I don’t think he’s going to get a run,” the veteran claimed.

Hodge felt that Marsh will play both the games as the management will have to stick with the all-rounder throughout the summer.

“If you come in for one Test, there’s no point coming out for the next. Mitch probably has to play the rest of the summer now, which is no good for Pete,” felt Hodge. “I’m sure there are some pretty clear messages coming back to (Handscomb) – go back and score more runs, the standard clichés,” he concluded.