Not only did Mitch Marsh break England’s hearts on the first day of the third Ashes Test, he helped melt away tensions between the two nations with a series of jokes about his oft-maligned Test career and famous cricketing family.
Returning to Test action after a four-year hiatus, Marsh played a match-saving 118 runs off just 118 balls to save Australia from a precarious position in the third Ashes Test at Headingley.
His flaming innings not only turned the tide for the visitors, but also provided a much-needed moment of levity as he wowed the English media with his post-match humor – including a hilarious reference to the wild celebrations of his famous cricketer father Geoff and brother Shaun launched while partying in Bali.
Facing a hostile reception at the start of the day, with sections of the crowd chanting the national anthem, Australia found themselves in a tight spot at 4-85.
However, Marsh, along with Travis Head, orchestrated a remarkable partnership of 155 runs, single-handedly saving the team from the brink of disaster.
Marsh celebrates with Travis Head after scoring a century while ‘on holiday in the UK’ after being called up to the Ashes side to replace injured all-rounder Cameron Green
Not only did Marsh help lift Australia to a competitive first innings total, he was also able to usher in with an early breakthrough with the ball
To put their heroics in perspective, the rest of the Australian team could only muster 108 points combined.
Marsh’s inclusion in the squad came as a result of Cameron Green suffering a minor hamstring injury in the second Test.
While Green is a rising star, Marsh proved his worth by seizing the opportunity and delivering a masterclass on the pitch.
His last Test appearance was in the 2019 Ashes series at The Oval where he failed to make a significant impact with the bat.
However, his exceptional bowling performance, taking five wickets in the first innings, showed his potential as an all-rounder.
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In a light-hearted post-match moment, Marsh joked about his century, saying he had enjoyed a holiday in the UK before being called up.
“Very unfortunate for Greeny with a very minor hamstring injury, but I feel like I’ve been his understudy on a lot of tours for a few years now,” he joked.
“This group, we’ve had a great team mentality and you know, my previous experience with long test tours is that at some point you always get a chance.
“So I just wanted to stay prepared and I think I’m the first man to score a Test 100 on a public holiday in the UK.”
It was a typical Aussie way of turning around the negative media attention he had received and also laughing from even the most stoic English media personalities.
While Marsh enjoyed a well-earned rest at night, his family wildly celebrated his achievement.
Shaun Marsh – his famous former Test-playing brother – and their cricketing legend father Geoff were caught on camera as Mitch hit his century.
The father and son shared ecstatic cheers and hugs at a bar.
“It’s Shaun’s 40th in a few days, so the whole family is in Bali, so let’s hope he makes it to 40,” Mitch explained, making the journalists laugh again.
The Marsh brothers have endured their fair share of criticism throughout their careers, with allegations of favoritism due to Geoff’s involvement as a former player, coach and selector.
(left to right) Shaun Marsh, Steve Smith and Mitch Marsh celebrate with the Ashes urn after winning back the trophy in Australia’s 2017/18 series
The Marsh name is famous in cricket, with Shaun, Mitch and father Geoff all enjoying successful international careers for Australia
Despite their undeniable talent, their test-level performance often fell short of expectations.
However, with his determined innings in this crucial Ashes Test, Mitch Marsh has silenced his critics – for now.
“I’m really proud of the work I’ve done mentally to overcome the nerves and get into the race as soon as possible,” said Marsh.
“I think that comes with a little bit of age, a little bit of growth and probably a little bit of time away from the game to work on certain things.
Marsh’s memorable day did not end with his battle heroics. He also impressed with the ball, claiming England’s third wicket when Zac Crawley fell into his pace while bowling.
“The game is fairly evenly split, one or two wickets tomorrow and we’re right in the thick of it,” said Marsh.
England need to secure a win to keep their Ashes hopes alive, while Australia can keep the urn with a draw or secure their first England series win since 2001 with a win.
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