Darren Lehmann was all praise for Mitchell Marsh and debutant Peter Nevill for their impressive performances at Lord’s as they filled in the big boots of Shane Watson and Brad Haddin respectively. Watson was axed from the team after a poor showing in Cardiff to follow up a prolonged lean patch in Test cricket, while Haddin decided to withdraw from the match due to his daughter Mia’s health. Both Marsh and Nevill played their part in helping Australia seal the mammoth 405-run victory. ALSO READ: Australia levelling an Ashes series in the second Test after losing the first
In England’s first innings Marsh picked the wickets of the top two run-scorers in Alastair Cook and Ben Stokes, which essentially broke England’s backbone. He also contributed with an unbeaten quickfire 27 in Australia’s second innings which allowed Michael Clarke to declare early to give his bowlers adequate time to dismiss the Englishmen. ALSO READ: England top-order a concern; Must rectify in time for 3rd Test at Edgbaston
Nevill got only a single opportunity to bat, but he made good of it by scoring a responsible 45. He impressed with his work behind the stumps, and effected seven dismissals in the game. READ: Ashes 2015: Alastair Cook wants England’s top order to fire following rout in 2nd Test