Mitchell Marsh likely to share load in Melbourne Test: Justin Langer

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ANI Dubai [UAE]
Last Updated : Dec 24 2018 | 3:45 PM IST

Australia head cricket coach Justin Langer on Monday said all-rounder Mitchell Marsh is "an attractive commodity" for the hosts at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

"In a perfectly balanced side, you have got someone who can bowl some overs. And Mitch (Marsh) becomes an attractive commodity on a wicket, unlike Adelaide and Perth," International Cricket Council quoted Langer, as saying.

"Although it looks like there is some grass on the wicket, there is a bit of moisture in it as we know the history of the pitch," ICC further quoted Langer, as saying.

The 27-year-old was left out of the playing XI for the first two Tests as the three-man pace attack of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins supported with spinner Nathan Lyon completed the squad.

However, as the series progresses, bowlers are tiring and having another pace-attack option in Marsh will help share the load. Lyon has been the best pick so far with 16 wickets, followed by Starc (10), Hazelwood (8) and Cummins (5).

"(Nathan) Lyon is literally world class the way he is going about his business, he has been so good to have in the team. And the other three, we are seeing great signs. There have been times when they have bowled worse and got more wickets," Langer said while reflecting on the Australian bowling department.

"I am really excited whether it is in this (Melbourne) Test match or the Sydney Test match or whenever, when those guys bowl as that unit that will be really positive. I can't wait to see that," he added.

The MCG pitch has been green-tinged as the curator Matt Page has assured the fans of a good contest. India and Australia will play their third Test from December 26 to 30.

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First Published: Dec 24 2018 | 3:45 PM IST

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