Former Australian head coach Justin Langer feels all-rounder Cameron Green could be the unlucky casualty in the fourth Ashes Test match against England. Green had missed the third Test match at Leeds, Headingley due to a hamstring injury and he is fit for selection for the fourth Test.
In Green’s absence, Mitchell Marsh had grabbed his opportunity with both hands as he scored a run-a-ball 118 in the first innings to help Australia post 263 runs on the board. Furthermore, Marsh scored 28 runs in the second innings and took a total of two wickets in the match, dismissing Zak Crawley on both occasions.
On the other hand, Cameron Green had scalped three wickets in the first two Test matches and could only score 84 runs. Ergo, he hasn’t been able to deliver with either bat or ball and Mitchell Marsh deserves his chance in the final XI.
“I think Mitch Marsh will retain his position at number six. He is experienced, obviously in great form, swings the ball and is a much-loved member of the team. Cameron Green will be the unlucky casualty. Seldom, do teams have the luxury of replacing one all-rounder with another. Australia do. Green has time on his side,” wrote Justin Langer for the Telegraph.
Langer feels the only change Australia should make in the playing XI is to replace Scott Boland with Josh Hazlewood. Boland went wicketless in the third Test match at Leeds, Headingley and has looked toothless in the ongoing Ashes.
“The only change from the Australia side that lost at Headingley should be Hazlewood in for Scott Boland. Australia have been happy to rotate these two bowlers, and I believe this will happen again in Manchester,” Langer added.
The former Australian opener squashed the idea of playing with four seamers and feels the visitors must play Todd Murphy, who could only pick a solitary wicket in the third Test.
“There has been talk of not picking a spinner and playing four quicks. This won’t happen, especially at Old Trafford. Nathan Lyon was a massive blow, but Todd Murphy must play. Australian cricket has a proud history of picking spinners. It is part of our DNA. We like having a spin bowler as part of our winning blueprint,” Langer further added.
The fourth Ashes Test will be played at Old Trafford from 19th July onwards.
