World Cup 2023: Mitchell Marsh ruled out of England clash as he returns home citing personal reasons
Another blow for the Australia cricket team as all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has flown back to his home in Perth citing personal reasons and is unavailable for the game against England on Saturday (November 4).
Regulatory board, Cricket Australia released an official statement to confirm Marsh’s indefinite department.
“Australian allrounder Mitchell Marsh has returned home from the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 late last night for personal reasons. A timeline on his return to the squad is to be confirmed. No further detail will be offered at this time,” the statement said.
Marsh’s unavailability means that the Baggy Greens will have only 13 players available for the Saturday clash, as Glenn Maxwell also suffered a concussion during a golf day on Monday.
No Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell for England clash
Mitchell Marsh’s absence will weaken the attacking options in the batting line-up for Pat Cummins and Co. It also means that Steve Smith will return to his original No.3 position after being demoted a number.
Recovered from a minor calf injury, Marcus Stoinis will return to the playing XI alongside Cameron Green, who failed to impress the management. Marnus Labuschagne is also likely to retain his spot in the playing XI.
Australia are still in a tricky situation for the semi-final berth. They have eight points in six games with three games to go. While India and South Africa are almost certain for the next round, there remains tight competition between Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Afghanistan for the other two positions.
While they will miss Marsh and Maxwell, Travis Head’s remarkable return will strengthen their side. With four wins in a row, they must be high on confidence and will look to seal the ticket to the semis.
Read More: “That is garbage” – Marnus Labuschagne on ‘Bazball’ term inclusion in Collins Dictionary
