Cummins backs Marsh for a swift Test return amid South Africa series

Pat Cummins has publicly suggested that Mitchell Marsh might be recalled to the Australian Test side as soon as the South Africa series begins, pointing to the batter’s recent white-ball exploits as proof of his continued value. Marsh, 34, retired from Western Australia’s first-class side last summer but remains eligible for Tests, having posted rapid innings of 36, 53, 8, 60 and 84 in the ongoing ODIs. He lost his Test berth to Beau Webster in early 2025 after battling back and hamstring problems, yet selectors have kept him on their radar and coach Andrew McDonald has indicated a potential role for him in the three-Test match set-up in Durban.

Cummins compared Marsh’s impact to that of Travis Head’s earlier shift in the order and recalled his decisive 96 at Durban in 2018 and a standout performance at Headingley in the 2023 Ashes. Beyond batting, Marsh is praised for his team-spirit and leadership, acting as a bridge between bowlers and batsmen. Injuries to Josh Inglis and questions over Marnus Labuschagne’s form further fuel speculation about reshuffling the middle order.