Mitchell Marsh opts out of IPL 2018

What's the story?

Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh opted to skip IPL 2018 after signing up to playing County cricket for Surrey. He added that the decision to not play IPL was tough but believes that playing under former Australian batting coach Michael Di Venuto will help him secure his spot in Tests.

Speaking to reporters in Sydney, Marsh said: "It was a fairly big decision from a money point of view but my ultimate goal is to play Test match cricket for Australia. That's the lure of the IPL - the money and playing in India, but I made the decision based on my cricket.

"When I made that decision I didn't really think I was going to be back there this quickly. But I'm really looking forward to the opportunity to play 14 red-ball games over there - if I can, and try and improve."

In case you didn't know...

The 26-year-old all-rounder was signed by Rising Pune Supergiant for $1 million in the IPL Auction 2017 and was part of the side that reached the final of the 10th edition of the tournament. He has also previously played in the IPL for Deccan Chargers and Pune Warriors.

The heart of the matter

The Australian all-rounder wants to establish his place in the Test side, especially with the Ashes set to take place in England in 2019. He admitted that he needs to adapt better and playing in England for the entire summer will help enhance his red ball credentials.

Since his comeback to the Test side, he scored his maiden Test century in the ongoing Ashes and an unbeaten 166-ball 29 to help Australia draw the Boxing Day Test.

What's next?

Marsh will feature for Australia in the final Ashes Test at Sydney and then will look to continue his good form in the five-match ODI series against England and T20I tri-series before Australia travel to South Africa for their next Test assignment.

Author's take

It is always difficult to take a call between white ball and red ball cricket. Considering his recent form and his explosive ability, Marsh will certainly have gone for a lot of money in the upcoming IPL Auction. But his decision to play county cricket means that his priorities are set and that he has his eyes on sealing a permanent spot in the Australia Test side.