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Marsh, a delightful performer

Special Correspondent

— Photo: PTI

PROLIFIC: Shaun Marsh is the top run-getter in the IPL.

Mumbai: Shaun Marsh has turned out to be Kings XI Punjab’s linchpin.

Replacing another Australian left-hander Simon Katich, who had to leave the DLF-IPL when it was gaining momentum, Marsh has taken centrestage with his brilliant batting displays. He has appeared as an opening batsman, middle order and a finisher, thanks to the Twenty20 format. He has freely scored runs and with 593 runs in ten matches, deservingly sported the Orange Cap going into the semifinals.

Less than two months away from turning 25, the Western Australian left-hander has not only entertained the crowd with his array of stokes in almost every innings but more importantly won matches for his side.

Entertaining

He has used a good eye-hand co-ordination and efficient footwork to send the ball racing to the boundary or clearing it (56 fours and 25 sixes).

Captain Yuvraj Singh and franchise owners Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia would be anxious for his success when Marsh steps out of the dug-out to face the Chennai Super Kings’ Makhaya Ntini and Manpreet Gony on Saturday.

Adapting and adjusting to the Indian conditions has largely contributed to his success. There’s a bright chance that Ricky Ponting will bring him to India when Australia plays four Tests in October-November. Dean Jones said two years ago that the Australian selectors do not pick players for Tests or one-day internationals, but for Australia.

Revelation

Marsh is a modern Australian cricketer and resembles the likes of Hayden and Hussey. He may be a revelation to the Indians, but Australia has regarded him as a bright prospect once he came through the ranks. He has had a good run since making his first class debut eight years ago.

Marsh has scored close to 4000 runs in provincial cricket. He was in the Australian squad that won the ICC Under-19 World Cup in 2002. He was the fourth highest run-scorer in the tournament.

He would be very much the man in demand when the IPL transfer window opens next February.

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