Not intended to be -Mitchell Marsh following his succumbing to the MCG curse of his family

Star all-rounder Mitchell Marsh amassed a stunning 96 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan before Mir Himza dismissed him. The hosts, in particular, were 16/4 and required a unique solution to overcome the challenging circumstances. Australia was able to re-enter the game when Marsh and Steven Smith took charge and forged a crucial 153-run partnership.

It is the third time that a member of Marsh’s family has left the game shortly before a major milestone at the storied MCG, and this time, he missed a well-earned century. In the second inning of the 2014 Boxing Day Test match against India, his older brother Shaun was dismissed for 99 runs, while his father Geoff scored 86 runs in the same match in 1991.

Mitchell Marsh commented that it was not meant to be while discussing missing the milestone. He continued by saying that while there is some history, if he had another chance, he would want to break it. Despite his desire to be named on the honours board, his ninety-six helped Australia reach a score of 187/6 in the second Test inning.

“I was very close to making the bloody big honours board, but it wasn’t meant to be. I guess there is a lot of history at this ground with the Boxing Day Test.” I suppose there is some history between us since Shaun technically still has me. However, hopefully, I get another go at it,” Marsh told ABC.

When you are four or sixteen, there are many voices in your head: Mitchell Marsh

Marsh said that he had numerous thoughts running through his mind when he batted on Day 3. The all-rounder was batting on 20, and he was riding his luck when Abdullah Shafique dropped a regular catch. Before Mir Hamza edged him at the slips, he scored 76 more runs.

He later declared his aim to exert pressure on Australia, and throughout his time at the crease, he played counter-attacking cricket.

“At four for sixteen, a lot of voices are competing for your attention. It all boils down, though, to being true to who I am, understanding exactly what my position is on this squad, and knowing how to play to my best. It can almost put more pressure on you when there are a few people forming a partnership, so I guess going on the counterattack and being optimistic in that situation,” Marsh remarked.