Rising India star Abhishek Sharma has been in scintillating form as an opener, amassing 314 runs at an average of 44.85 and a strike rate of 200 during India’s Asia Cup triumph. He will be one of the players
to watch out for as the five-match T20I series between India and Australia gets underway from Wednesday in Canberra.
Marsh admitted Abhishek’s recent run and said his team wants to be challenged “against the best players”.
“He (Abhishek) obviously sets the tone for them. He’s been incredible for the Sunrisers over the last little period of time. He’ll provide us a good challenge…I think you want to be challenged against the best players in the world. We know he’s one of those,” Marsh said.
The Australian skipper himself has been in fine touch at the top, scoring two centuries and two half-centuries in his last 10 innings.
“I think it’s just like any other batsman, you want to contribute to winning games for Australia. That’s really all I’m focused on when I’m batting. I’m not really thinking as a captain,” Marsh said.
“I’m trying to have a really good partnership with Heady or whoever it is that I’m batting with. So hopefully it will continue.”
With Ashes preparations in full swing, Australia’s T20I squad features several players rotating in and out.
Leg-spinner Adam Zampa will miss the start of the series following the birth of his second child, while Josh Hazlewood will withdraw after the first two matches and Sean Abbott will depart after the third game.
“We do have guys coming in and out. But I think that’s been the nature of the white ball teams over the last couple of years with the schedules and how busy it is,” Marsh said.
“Some guys going back and playing shield cricket. Certain guys coming back from injury. So, I think it’s just about being really flexible with that. Each and every one understands their role when they do come into the team.
“It’s about being really clear on that. And then guys coming in and doing their job.”
