The electric atmosphere of the English stands is undoubtedly amplified by the exuberant presence of the Barmy Army. Throughout the Ashes 2023 series, the Barmy Army’s fervent support resonated magnificently with the crowds. Adding a delightful twist to the tale, Pat Cummins regales us with a comical anecdote involving the group’s chant song, which took an amusing turn of events.
The hallowed grounds of the Oval played host to an Ashes test match, with the formidable Australian all-rounder, affectionately referred to as the “bison” within his team, Mitch Marsh, showcasing his prowess on the bowling front. The innate camaraderie among Australian players was evident, as they approached the contest with the assumption that the English fans would hardly extend a warm welcome to their opponents.
Australian cricketing luminary Pat Cummins generously shared this tale during a recent interview with Bizzofsport, delving into his favorite Barmy Army chant. With a hearty chuckle, Cummins recounted the scene, “You see, one of my best mates, the bustling all-rounder Mitchy Marsh, and then we had Rod Marsh, who incidentally isn’t related to Mitch, serving as our selector.”
The chronicle harks back to the climactic fifth Ashes test at the illustrious Oval. Pat Cummins paints the scene with these words, “Mitch Marsh was charging in from one end of the Oval, while the melodic chorus of the Barmy Army chants in unison, ‘He is big, he is bad, selected by his dad’.” The irony that Rod Marsh bears no familial connection to Mitchell Marsh, unbeknownst to the Barmy Army, lends an extra layer of mirth to the tale.
The Ashes series of 2023 marked the triumphant return of Mitchell Marsh to the Test arena, a spectacle witnessed by cricket Australian and English fans. His form was nothing short of spectacular, wielding the bat with aplomb and showcasing his all-rounder finesse by clinching a couple of pivotal wickets.
Marsh’s contributions to the Australian cricketing cause extend well beyond the white-ball format, earning him the distinction of being a standout performer and he is appointed the T20I captain of the team.
