COVID returns to Australia camp, Mitchell Marsh infected with the virus

Australia have named Mitchell Marsh as their captain in the upcoming three-match T20I series against the West Indies at home and the subsequent T20Is in New Zealand. The first T20I against the West Indies takes place in Hobart on Friday, February 9.

Ahead of the encounter, the star all-rounder has tested positive for COVID-19. He is the third Australian player in recent times to have been infected by the virus. Marsh has been given the green light to play but he will have to use a separate dressing room and maintain distance from his teammates during the clash. So, it seems that the experienced campaigner will have to shout his instructions to his teammates.

Recently, Josh Inglis and Cameron Green were the players who had taken the field for Australia after testing positive for COVID-19. Both had to stand away from their teammates during the national anthems, and Green was seen standing a decent distance away from his compatriots during the wicket celebrations during the Gabba Test against the West Indies.

Australia won the T20 World Cup for the first time in 2021 under the leadership of Aaron Finch. Cricket Australia (CA) haven't announced their captain for the 2024 edition of the marquee event, which takes place in the Caribbean in June.

However, by giving Marsh the responsibility of leading the side in the upcoming six T20Is, CA could have indicated that they are looking at him to spearhead the 'Men in Yellow' in the multi-nation tournament. Marsh captained Australia during their three-match T20I series against South Africa last year. He led them to a 3-0 win and also won the Player of the Series award.

Pat Cummins has led the Australian team commendably in Tests as well as ODIs. He led them to the World Test Championship title and the ODI World Cup title last year. The right-arm pacer has been rested for the T20Is against the West Indies but will play in the T20Is in New Zealand. However, he will be playing under Marsh's leadership.