The contest to replace David Warner as the Test opener is getting interesting, with Mitchell Marsh emerging as a possible candidate. On the same day that Matt Renshaw scored an unbeaten 136 for the Prime Minister’s XI, discussions were underway about the possibility of Marsh moving from his current position as number six in the order to opening alongside Usman Khawaja in the post-Warner era.
Pat Cummins, speaking at the Fox Cricket launch, suggested that Marsh’s success in white-ball cricket could make him a viable option as an opener in Test matches. Although this proposal is open to debate, with Marsh being more suited to a middle-order role in red-ball cricket.
Despite his potential to handle the new ball, this change could potentially derail his recent success at the Test level. While Marsh has delivered some impressive performances throughout his career, he has not been consistent enough to solidify his position in the Test arena.
With the debate about who will replace Warner still ongoing, and names like Cameron Bancroft and Marcus Harris being tossed around, it seems that Marsh may have a chance to secure the number six spot if he performs well in the upcoming Test matches against Pakistan and the West Indies. However, it is unlikely that he will be the chosen opener given his history and past performance.
In conclusion, while Marsh may prove to be a valuable asset in white-ball cricket, it is doubtful that he will find long-term success as an opener in the Test format.