'Of course he would like better performances' - Andrew McDonald comes to Mitchell Marsh's defence after poor performance

Australian coach Andrew McDonald has defended all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has faced significant criticism for his form during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ahead of the fifth and final Test against India in Sydney, McDonald opened up about Marsh’s value to the team, despite his poor performances with both bat and ball in the series.

Marsh’s numbers in the series have been underwhelming with a batting average of just 10.42 and a score of 73 runs across seven innings, his contributions are the second-lowest by an Australian in a home Test series with at least seven innings since 1984-85. His bowling has also not been impactful, delivering only one breakthrough after claiming 2 for 12 in the opening Test.

Meanwhile, there has been speculation about Marsh’s fitness, with critics pointing to his reduced workload with the ball. However, McDonald quashed such claims, mentioning that the limited use of Marsh’s bowling was due to tactical choices rather than physical issues.

"We haven't required him with the ball as often as what we would have thought. He bowled again today. His speeds are up in the high 120s. There are no injury concerns there," McDonald said during a media interaction on Monday.

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He's in a good headspace after Melbourne win: Andrew McDonald

McDonald also spoke about Marsh’s struggles but pointed out his positive influence within the team environment. The coach also revealed that the all-rounder wants to perform and is in good mindset after the Melbourne Test win.

"I think to sort of head that down that angle is a little bit unfair. We just haven't required him at certain times for whatever reason, so that's more a tactical implementation, as opposed to a body. I think the amount of overs that we've been bowling across the series is probably going to be a benefit to us. Would he like better performances? Of course. But he's in a good headspace after the win in Melbourne," McDonald added.

Marsh’s inclusion became necessary after Cameron Green was ruled out of the series with a back injury. However, his lean form has sparked debate over his place in the team, especially as selectors weigh their options for the Sydney Test. Beau Webster, an uncapped all-rounder, remains on standby, while pacer Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott could step in for Mitchell Starc who has been suffering from his back issues.