Image: Mitchell Marsh emphasizes the importance of focusing on Gabba preparation / © Hindustan Times
Australia is setting aside memories of India’s remarkable 2021 victory at the Gabba to focus on the upcoming Test match. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh stressed the team’s determination to look forward, drawing inspiration from their bounce-back win in Adelaide last week. During the 2021 series, India, led by stunning performances from Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, ended Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba with a historic chase.
Speaking to the media, Marsh said:
The way we bounced back from Perth (defeat) was an example of that. So we are really focused on playing our style this week. I had a sore back, but right now it’s feeling as good as it has felt.
Australia’s batting lineup has shown inconsistency, with Travis Head being the standout performer. However, Marsh backed Steve Smith heavily. He further added on his current performance:
I don’t think he has to do anything to show he is Steve Smith. We know he is one of our best players ever and we are certainly backing him to get a few runs… We know he (Smith) is a class player and scored a lot of runs for Australia… he seems to have stepped up and certainly he has got full faith in his mind.
As for Josh Hazlewood’s availability, Marsh remained tight-lipped, saying only that the pacer was working hard to regain fitness. With both teams locked in an intense series, the Gabba promises another thrilling contest.