Incumbent all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has expressed uncertainty about his standing in Test matches but has promised to maintain an aggressive batting approach if chosen for Australia's initial Test of the home season versus Pakistan in Perth.
At 32 years old, Marsh played a pivotal role in Australia's victorious World Cup campaign, amassing 441 runs, including two centuries, notably an unbeaten 177. He had reclaimed his Test spot during the Ashes series and capitalised on an injury to fellow West Australian Cameron Green by swiftly scoring a century at Headingley.
His inclusion in the fifth Test over Green, who then played just three matches in the World Cup, appeared to be influenced by Green's extensive overseas commitments throughout the year, leading to his limited appearances.
However, 24-year-old Green has conveyed his determination to regain his Test position by participating in Western Australia's ongoing Sheffield Shield match against Queensland at the Gabba. Furthermore, he aims to feature in next week's Prime Minister's XI four-day game against Pakistan in Canberra.
Marsh, currently taking a break before the December 14 start of the first Test, presents a different picture compared to Green. The tussle between the all-rounders seems to be Australia's main selection puzzle, yet Marsh, mirroring his aggressive batting style, is adopting a proactive mindset.
"I'm past battling, I'm here to enjoy my cricket and have fun," Marsh told reporters in Perth. "I absolutely love playing for Australia. I worked really hard to get another opportunity during the Ashes and my attitude is 'what will be, will be', so I've done everything I can."
"We have a lot of options. Whoever plays will do the job."
In the competition for the number six position, Marsh expressed a desire to potentially play alongside Green, as they did during the fourth Ashes Test when Green batted at number seven and Australia went into the match unusually without a dedicated spinner.
"He's a special talent. We've got a great relationship. We're super close on and off the field," Marsh said of Green. "I always joke that there's probably not a lot I can teach him on the cricket field, but he knows I'm always there for him and hopefully we can play a lot of cricket together."
If selected, Marsh expressed enthusiasm at the idea of facing Pakistan's fast bowlers on the anticipated lively pitch at Optus Stadium. The upcoming match will mark the fourth Test held at the 60,000-seat venue, situated across the Swan River from the WACA. However, it will be Marsh's debut on this ground, despite his numerous standout performances for the Perth Scorchers in the BBL.
"The way I'm going to bat won't change. I feel like I've found my most consistent method over the last couple of years and that's allowed me to really enjoy my cricket," he said. "I haven't played a [Test] match here at Perth Stadium, so obviously, if I'm selected, I'm super excited for that."
The focus will centre on the pitch that remained calm during the previous match last summer when Australia triumphed over West Indies, a game that extended to the fifth day.
The drop-in pitch was recently transported onto the stadium's field after being prepared at Optus Stadium since February. It features the identical local clay and grass types found on the WACA ground, aiming to mirror its renowned speed and bounce.
"I often say this is the best wicket in the world, I truly mean that," Marsh said. "It's fast, it's bouncy, it brings both batters and bowlers into the game. That's what you want, an even contest. It's a great place to play."
- Mitchell Marsh