The Australian team is having a lead of 2-0 over England in the ongoing five-Test Ashes series. However, Australian skipper Steve Smith is looking forward to wrapping up the series in the third Test at WACA stadium in Perth.

But with the WACA pitch is known for aiding fast bowlers Smith might consider having a full-fledged pace unit by adding extra seamer in the form of returning all-rounder Mitchell Marsh.

Speaking at a press conference in Perth, the Steve said, “We’re going to have another look at the wicket in the morning and decide if we need that extra bowling option. The stats suggest over the last couple of years the bowlers have had a pretty heavy workload on this wicket, so we’re probably leaning that way at the moment. It’s probably not as hard as I’d have liked it to be a day out but 24 hours can change a lot and in the morning hopefully, it’s a bit harder and faster.”

With Shaun Marsh scoring a match-winning hundred in Adelaide, it appears that Peter Handscomb is the likely choice who will have to sit out of the team in case Mitchell is included.

But Smith pointed out that Mitchell’s selection would not be made to replace any batsman. He said, “If we do go down that route then it’s purely because we think we need an extra bowler on this wicket, nothing to do with anyone’s batting.”

He further added, “If we do go down the route of Pete missing out, it’s unlucky. We still see a very bright future (for him) indeed. If he is to miss out, there’s no reason he won’t be back in the team soon.”

When asked about Mitchell’s inclusion, Smith said, “I think he’s tightened up his defense quite a little bit. In defense, he has softened his hands up a bit. He still putting away the bad ball, he hits the ball probably as hard as anyone I’ve seen. He’s a strong lad.”

The third Test between England and Australia in Perth will start on December 14.