Star Australian batter Steve Smith finds himself in a rare slump, managing only 19 runs across the last two Tests against India. Having returned to his preferred number four position in the batting order, Smith’s struggle for form has become a pressing concern, particularly with Australia’s place in the World Test Championship final still hanging in the balance.
Amidst this, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has expressed unwavering faith in Smith, expecting him to rediscover his rhythm in the critical third Test at the Gabba. Marsh refrained from offering Smith any advice, emphasizing the immense stature of the former Australian captain. Acknowledging Smith’s legacy, Marsh noted that the prolific batter has always delivered when Australia needed him most.
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“We know he’s one of our best players ever, and I’m certainly backing him to get some runs. I’m probably not in a position to tell Steve Smith what he should work on. We know he’s a class player and he’s scored a lot of runs for Australia. At times when we’ve needed him, he always seems to step up,” Mitchell Marsh told Cricbuzz.
Meanwhile, India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been the standout performer in the series, taking 12 wickets in just two matches to lead the wicket-takers chart. Bumrah’s relentless precision and skill have left the Australian batters searching for answers. Reflecting on the challenge of facing Bumrah, Marsh acknowledged the Indian spearhead’s dominance but maintained his readiness to take him on.
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“We know right now he’s probably the best bowler in the world. It’s just about getting up for that challenge. It’s a big series, and you want to take on the best in the world. That is certainly my mentality. I’m looking forward to facing him again. I think each batter has their own plans, and as a batting unit, we back each other’s strategies. But when you’re up against the best bowler in the world, simply trying to see him off might mean he’ll eventually get you,” Marsh remarked with determination.
As the Gabba Test approaches, all eyes are on Smith and Bumrah. Will the Australian stalwart find his form, or will India’s ace pacer continue to dominate? The stage is set for a thrilling battle.
