Australian T20 captain Mitchell Marsh has been cleared to participate in IPL 2025 for his new franchise, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), but only as a specialist batter. Despite missing the Champions Trophy due to a back injury, Marsh is set to travel early next week and is expected to play a key role at the top of the order for LSG.
Injury Setback and Recovery
The 33-year-old all-rounder was ruled out of Australia’s ODI tour of Sri Lanka and the Champions Trophy on January 31 due to “lower back pain and dysfunction.” The injury, linked to a disc problem, had been troubling him since Australia’s limited-overs tour of the UK in September 2024.
Following consultations with a back specialist in early February, Marsh underwent a rehabilitation program focused on rest and recovery. In recent weeks, he resumed batting and has now been given the green light to play in IPL 2025. However, he will not be bowling to avoid aggravating his condition.
Marsh’s IPL Return with LSG
Marsh was acquired by LSG for $400,000 at the IPL 2024 auction, making a switch from Delhi Capitals, where he had played for the last three seasons. His inclusion is expected to strengthen LSG’s top order, and his experience will be vital for the franchise.
He is set to join the LSG squad on March 18, where he will reunite with coach Justin Langer, who has previously mentored him at Australia, Western Australia, and Perth Scorchers.
Recent Playing History & Injury Concerns
Marsh has not played since representing Perth Scorchers in the BBL on January 7, 2025. He sat out the final two matches of the tournament due to his ongoing back issues. Prior to that, his last white-ball matches were in the UK tour of September 2024.
His recent IPL seasons have also been marred by injuries. In IPL 2024, he managed just four matches for Delhi Capitals before a hamstring injury forced him to return home for rehabilitation. Despite his injury struggles, Marsh remains a valuable asset with his aggressive batting style and leadership qualities.
Other Australian Players in IPL 2025
Several of Marsh’s Australian teammates also missed the Champions Trophy but are now set to feature in IPL 2025:
- Pat Cummins (SRH): Recovered from an ankle issue and will captain Sunrisers Hyderabad.
- Mitchell Starc (DC): Missed the Champions Trophy due to an ankle niggle but will play for Delhi Capitals after being bought for $1.4 million.
- Josh Hazlewood (RCB): The most expensive Australian at the IPL 2024 auction ($1.49 million), is returning from calf and hip injuries.
Conclusion
Despite ongoing concerns about his fitness, Mitchell Marsh’s return as a batter-only player for LSG in IPL 2025 is a positive development for both him and the franchise. With his explosive batting skills and wealth of experience, he is expected to be a key contributor to LSG’s campaign under the guidance of Justin Langer.
