Australian left-handed batsman Shaun Marsh is ready to play a floating role for the Kangaroos at the forthcoming 2019 World Cup. Marsh is in good stead which subsequently saw him slamming a fine half-century during the unofficial warm-up game against the Windies at the Nursery Ground, Ageas Bowl in Hampshire. Thus, he further stitched a 100-plus stand with Steven Smith.
Marsh to strike chords again in England?
The 35-year-old southpaw has batted at six different positions during his career, is willing to bat at any position during the impending quadrennial event.
“I’d like to think I’m nice and flexible, I’ve batted from one to six throughout my career,” Marsh told reporters in England.
Meanwhile, the Narrogin-born Marsh is keen to deliver in the impending practice matches. The reigning champions Australia will face England at Cardiff on May 24, before facing Sri Lanka at Southampton on May 27 respectively.
“I’m just going to try and enjoy the next two practice games and spend more time out in the middle and see what happens,” Marsh added.
Earlier, Windies batted first to post a modest total of 229. However, in response, Australia chased down the target with ease. On his return, Smith managed to score 76, whereas, Marsh remained unbeaten on 55.
Marsh brimming with confidence ahead of the 2019 World Cup:
In 2018, Marsh garnered 288 runs to finish as highest run-getter for Australia in the five-match bilateral series. He averaged 57.60, which solely reflect how good he has batted in English condition despite Australia losing series 5-0.
Back then, he scored two hundreds while expressing delight on making a return to a place where he actually loved to bat on.
Since 2008, Marsh has featured in 71 ODIs to amass 2747 runs at an average of 41.6. He has slammed seven tons and 15 half-centuries during his career so far.
“It certainly gives you confidence. If you’ve scored runs here in the past, it was nice to spend some time out in the middle and get my feet moving. I enjoy batting out here,” Marsh added.
Marsh witnessed the wickets are a bit on the slower side compared to what is on offer in Australia. He added there is a swing, too.
“Obviously, it’s a different challenge. The wickets are slower [compared] to what they are back home, and it swings around a bit,” Marsh concluded.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of David Warner and Smith has helped Australia for the big time ahead of the ODI showpiece.
Besides, Australia will begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan. Both teams will wrestle at the Bristol County Ground (BCG) on June 1st.