Mitchell Marsh Downplays Ashes Talk Ahead of India ODI Series Opener

Mitchell Marsh had dismissed speculation about an Ashes call-up as Australia prepared to face India in the ODI series opener at Perth.

Garbed in Australia’s new bright yellow ODI kit, Mitchell Marsh looked relaxed as he prepared to lead his team in the first ODI against India at Optus Stadium, Perth, on Sunday, October 19. Standing in for regular skipper Pat Cummins, Marsh could not avoid a question that has been following him lately — whether his white-ball form might earn him a surprise Ashes call-up.

“I’ve got tickets to day one and two. Haven’t asked the wife yet, so that’s about as much thought as I’ve given it,” Marsh joked, brushing aside the speculation with his usual humour. The all-rounder has been in sublime white-ball form but has played down chances of reviving his Test career, which looked over after he was dropped last summer.

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While his light-hearted remark ended the pre-match press conference, it reflected how the upcoming Ashes series continues to dominate discussions in Australian cricket. Despite the excitement surrounding the three-match ODI series against India, the looming Ashes remains a central topic, even as both sides prepare for a long white-ball season leading up to the 2027 World Cup.

Marsh on Australia’s Transitional Phase

Australia are in a transitional phase in ODIs, halfway through the World Cup cycle. The retirements of senior players Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Marcus Stoinis have left gaps in the batting order. The situation has been complicated further with Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Cameron Green unavailable for the opening match. While Carey is playing in the Sheffield Shield, Inglis is nursing a calf injury, and Green was ruled out with a side strain.

“He’s okay, it’s on the very, very minor end. It’s a cautious take on it but he’s all good,” Marsh said about his Western Australia teammate Green.

These developments have opened the door for new faces. Matt Renshaw and batting all-rounder Mitchell Owen are set to make their ODI debuts, while Josh Philippe returns to the national side after more than four years to take the gloves. Marnus Labuschagne, recalled as Green’s replacement after a strong domestic run, has joined the squad in Perth but won’t play the first ODI.

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“Across the board in our white-ball teams over the last 12 months, we’ve seen a lot of guys get opportunities, so it always brings excitement to those guys,” Marsh said. “We just have to be really clear on their role and they will enjoy playing cricket for Australia.”