Shaun Marsh’s epic display lights up BBL after ‘really difficult’ decision for family

Shaun Marsh was in fine form in his first game of the BBL season. Image: Getty

Shaun Marsh has revealed he injured both of his calves preparing for the BBL season after winding back the clock with a vintage display on Tuesday night. Marsh made 59 off 36 balls in the first game of his farewell campaign after announcing earlier this year that this season would be his last.

The 40-year-old missed the first four games of the BBL season, and revealed the injury dramas after his starring knock against the Scorchers on Tuesday night. “I did both my calves over the last four or five months, so it’s been tough work to get through that,” he said.

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“My first one I did was just getting back from Bali – just doing some run-throughs. So I had the left one (injured) and then that was coming good. And then I did my right one.

“So yeah, it was frustrating knowing that this was going to be my last season. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t (worry about the possibility of not making it back). It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, but it’s nice to be back here now and hopefully I can string a few games together and get a few wins.”

The veteran batter has been plagued by injuries throughout his career, but is accustomed to starring upon return. “What gave me a bit of confidence was it was pretty similar to last season – I played no cricket up to Big Bash really,” Marsh said. “So I fell back on that. But I certainly felt pressure today. It was probably one of the most nervous times I’ve had before a game.”

When asked about his looming retirement he said: “I haven’t thought about it too much. I’ve got a job to do, and that’s to finish off really well here. I’m here to contribute and win games of cricket.”

In announcing his retirement in March, the 40-year-old said it was the best decision for his family. “Even though it’s been a really difficult decision to make I know it’s the right call,” he said. “I’ve been speaking with (wife) Bec a fair bit about it and obviously dad (Geoff) and my brother (Mitch) as well and I knew deep down inside of me it was the right decision to make.

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“As I said to the [Western Australia] guys, I couldn’t come into training anymore and look them in the eyes and say that I’m 100 per cent committed to what we wanted to achieve. Mentally I’m cooked and physically I’m cooked, and I know this is the right decision for myself, the playing group and my family.”

Shaun Marsh with his wife and son. Image: Getty

The Scorchers suffered a staggering collapse late in their innings on Tuesday night, losing 7-5 in the space of 18 balls to be bowled out for 162. Marsh led the charge for the Renegades in reply, getting his side to within touching distance of victory.

The Renegades needed 35 off the final 20 balls after Marsh departed, and the equation came down to 17 off the final over – bowled by AJ Tye. Jono Wells was caught on the second ball of the over and Kane Richardson fell the very next delivery, with the Renegades finishing 8-149 and 13 runs short. The Renegades are now winless after five games on bottom of the ladder, while the Scorchers (three wins, one no-result) are equal top.

Shaun Marsh wound back the clock in the Melbourne Renegades’ loss to Perth Scorchers in the BBL. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

Marsh cracked four fours and three sixes during his classy knock, and needed just 28 balls to bring up his half-century. “It never surprises us,” Scorchers vice-captain Josh Inglis said of Marsh’s stunning return. “Everyone knows what a class player he is, and you’re almost a bit depressed when he walks out to bat, because you know how good he is and what he can do to an attack.”

with AAP

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