Australian T20I captain Mitchell Marsh has officially been cleared to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, bringing a major boost to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad.
Mitchell Marsh cleared for IPL 2025 but will play as a specialist batter
However, the experienced all-rounder will only be available as a specialist batter, as he continues to recover from a lower back injury that has troubled him since late 2024. According to the ESPNcricinfo report, Marsh, who had to withdraw from Australia’s ODI series against Sri Lanka and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, will now return to competitive cricket but without his bowling abilities.
Despite this limitation, LSG will be relieved to have his batting firepower in their top order. The franchise, which acquired him for INR 3.4 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, is expected to use him in a key role as they aim for a deep run in the tournament. Marsh is set to join the LSG squad on March 18, where he will reunite with head coach Justin Langer, a mentor he has worked with extensively in the past at Australia, Western Australia, and the Perth Scorchers. This reunion could prove vital in helping Marsh regain his best form after his extended injury break.
Recurring injury woes and rehabilitation process
Marsh has had an injury-plagued career, and his latest lower back issue surfaced during Australia’s limited-overs tour of England in September 2024. The injury, believed to be disc-related, worsened during early January 2025, leading to severe discomfort that forced him to withdraw from international assignments. Given the importance of managing his long-term fitness, Marsh consulted a specialist in February 2025 and was placed on a strict rehabilitation program, which involved complete rest from bowling.
His recovery plan also included gradual batting practice under medical supervision and intensive physiotherapy to strengthen his lower back. While he has now been deemed fit to play, Cricket Australia’s medical team has advised him to avoid bowling until further evaluation post-IPL. This means LSG will have to adjust their team combinations, particularly in the bowling department, as they will be without Marsh’s medium-pace overs.
Role at Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025
With his bowling unavailable, Marsh’s primary role for LSG will be as a top-order batter. His aggressive strokeplay and ability to counter both spin and pace make him an asset in the powerplay and middle overs. Given LSG’s struggles with batting stability in the previous season, Marsh is expected to take on a more significant responsibility in anchoring the innings.
His likely batting position will be either No. 3 or No. 4, depending on how LSG structures their playing XI. The franchise might look to use Marsh as an enforcer in the middle overs, ensuring they maintain an aggressive approach against both fast bowlers and spinners. His experience in handling high-pressure situations will also be crucial in tight run chases and knockout matches.
LSG will also benefit from Marsh’s familiarity with Justin Langer’s coaching philosophy. Langer, now in his second season as LSG’s head coach, has worked closely with Marsh throughout his career. The duo shares a strong understanding of each other’s game, which could play a vital role in shaping LSG’s batting strategy this season.
Also READ: Harsha Bhogle picks LSG’s strongest XI for IPL 2025 ft. Rishabh Pant
Marsh’s IPL journey and past performance
Marsh has had a stop-start IPL career, with injuries frequently cutting short his seasons. His most recent stint with the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2024 was disrupted by a hamstring injury, limiting his impact. He played only four matches, scoring 63 runs at a strike rate of 160.53, while also bowling sparingly due to fitness concerns.
Across his IPL career spanning 42 matches, Marsh has amassed 666 runs at an average of 19.59 with a strike rate of 127.83. He has registered three fifties and has been effective as a utility player in the middle order. With the ball, he has taken 37 wickets at an economy rate of 8.42, including two four-wicket hauls. However, his inability to complete full IPL seasons has hampered his consistency, making IPL 2025 a pivotal campaign in reestablishing his reputation.
Can LSG overcome their challenges and succeed in IPL 2025?
While Marsh’s return strengthens LSG, the franchise still faces key challenges heading into IPL 2025. The team will have to balance their playing XI effectively, given that they will not have an extra overseas bowling option with Marsh unable to bowl. This means LSG will need to rely heavily on their Indian seamers, such as Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan to provide the necessary firepower with the ball.
Another critical aspect will be Marsh’s workload management. LSG will need to monitor his fitness closely, ensuring he doesn’t aggravate his back injury during the grueling IPL schedule. His role as a batter-only player puts additional pressure on Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni, who must deliver consistently in the middle order.
Despite these challenges, LSG boasts one of the most dynamic batting line-ups in IPL 2025. If Marsh remains fit and in form, he could be one of the most impactful players of the season. His ability to control the innings, accelerate when required, and contribute in crucial chases makes him an invaluable asset.
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