Shaun Marsh boost for Australia ahead of second ODI

Marsh’s return would change the dynamics of the Australian batting line-up. An automatic choice at No.3, Marsh’s inclusion might push Usman Khawaja at the top of the order. Marcus Stoinis would, therefore, come down the order. Ashton Turner, who made his debut in the first ODI may have to sit out.

Shaun Marsh is available for selection for the second ODI at Nagpur after he landed in India late and joined the rest of the Australian squad.

Marsh had missed the first ODI in Hyderabad after he had decided to stay back in Australia to accompany his wife who gave birth to their second child on February 26^th. 

Australian captain Aaron Finch indicated that Marsh would return to the No. 3 spot in Nagpur. The left hander also had a hamstring niggle, which according to the Australian team management is in good shape now.

Marsh’s return would change the dynamics of the Australian batting line-up. An automatic choice at No.3, Marsh’s inclusion might push Usman Khawaja at the top of the order. Marcus Stoinis would, therefore, come down the order. Ashton Turner, who made his debut in the first ODI may have to sit out.

Marsh, 35, averages 47.83 and has three centuries in 13 innings batting at No.3 as the standout batter in Australia's ODI top order over the past 12 months.

Australia will have their task cut out against the formidable Indian side which beat them in the first ODI by six wickets. India have never lost to Australia at Nagpur. The Vidarbha Cricket Association's stadium in Jamtha has proved to be a good hunting ground for India against Australia as the hosts have emerged victorious by a comfortable margin in all the three ODI matches played at the venue.