Mitchell Marsh not just a captain but a leader: Marcus Stoinis

NEW DELHI: Marcus Stoinis praised his teammate Mitchell Marsh, emphasizing that he is not merely a captain but a genuine leader. However, Stoinis also mentioned that the present Australian team is not difficult to guide, as each member comprehends their responsibilities in various circumstances.

The goal for Marsh is to steer Australia towards securing their second T20 World Cup title.

"Mitchie is not a captain but a leader. The way he gets the groups together inspires it," fellow all-rounder Stoinis said, as quoted by PTI, on the 'Unplayable' podcast.

"He's been a leader for a longtime in this group. He has captained in the past at a younger age as well."

Stoinis is not the only one who has praised the all-rounder; the entire team speaks highly of the 'Bison'.

Marsh's relationship with the fans has been tumultuous, with some even booing him when his performance declined, leading him to claim "most of Australia hates me".

However, Marsh experienced a resurgence last year and has now become a fan favorite. He regained his place in the Test team and played a crucial role in Australia's remarkable World Cup victory in India. He also excelled in T20 matches. Earlier this year, he was honored with the prestigious Allan Border medal.

Marsh's success may have been predestined, given that his father, Geoff Marsh, was a former Australian ODI captain and World Cup-winning coach. Growing up, he was surrounded by legendary captains such as Allan Border, Mark Taylor, and Steve Waugh, which seems to have influenced him.

In 2010, at the age of 32, he led the Australian Under-19 team to victory in the World Cup. He also captained the Perth Scorchers in 31 Big Bash League matches and led the Western Australian team to victory in the 2017-18 Marsh Cup before being appointed as the Australian T20 captain.

Under Marsh's leadership, Australia has reached the Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup, remaining undefeated in the group stage.

Stonis believes that Marsh has it easy with the team in the West Indies, as everyone knows their roles and operates smoothly, but he also thinks that the all-rounder is more than capable of being "creative" when necessary.

"Not taking anything away (from Marsh), I think this group particularly is quite an easy group to lead. We have four best quicks, best spinner in the world and all-rounders. It's pretty much like clock work, most of us know when to bowl, where to field," Stoinis said.

Australia have completed their group stage matches, all of which were held in the Caribbean. The pitches in this region are known for their slow and low nature, and as the World Cup progresses, they may offer more turn to the spinners.

"There might be need for some creativeness which needs to happen if the wickets become slower turner," Stoinis said.