Justin Langer cops backlash as Aussies could be forced to replace Mitch Marsh and Mitchell Starc

Justin Langer is copping backlash for his defence of the under-fire Mitch Marsh, while Australia might be forced to replace Mitchell Starc for the fifth Test at the SCG. Starc battled through what appeared to be a back injury in the fourth Test at the MCG, helping Australia pull off a remarkable victory.

But with the fifth Test starting in just three days time, there are concerns about whether Starc will be able to play. The left-armer has played all four Tests this summer, but might need a well-earned rest.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, captain Pat Cummins said: “The first ball of a spell, when you’re a bit sore it always hurts a little bit more, so I’m pretty confident he’ll be fine. We’ll reassess in a couple of days, but he’s managing a couple of sore bits, well I think mainly one sore bit on his ribs or something.

“But he’s a warrior, he gets through, his pace didn’t drop off, he never even contemplates not being an option to bowl. So yeah, other than being in pain, he’s fully fit and available.”

Mitchell Starc might miss SCG Test even if he's fit

But Aussie great Kerry O'Keefe reckons Starc won't play in Sydney and pointed to his record at his home venue. “He won’t play Sydney," he said on Fox Cricket. "That’s his worst ground statistically, Mitchell Starc. He averages 44 per wicket there. 44, that’s so high.”

Jyhe Richardson is the most likely option to replace Starc after being recalled to the squad for the fourth Test. And the Aussies might also need to bite the bullet and replace the out-of-form Marsh.

The all-rounder has endured a difficult series with the bat, making just 73 runs at an average of 10.42. Pat Cummins scored more runs (90) in the fourth Test than Marsh has in the entire series. Marsh dealt with a sore back in the first Test in Perth that has affected his bowling, and hasn't taken a wicket since then from a combined 16 overs across the series.

Justin Langer cops backlash over Mitch Marsh comments

Many are calling for Marsh to be axed and replaced with Beau Webster, who has been banging the door down in Sheffield Shield in the last two seasons. Selectors might be reluctant to make two changes if Starc can't play in Sydney, and former coach Langer launched a defence of Marsh in commentary for Channel 7.

"It's a closely knit team. I've been public in saying, even though India are starting to fight back in this, I don't like the chopping and changing of Test teams," Langer said. "In that instance, it will be another change to the Test team. I don't think it will be a positive one. I think he should play in Sydney."

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But Langer's comments have been savaged on social media, with cricket pundits suggesting that kind of stance sends the wrong message. Veteran journalist Rohan Connolly wrote: "Was there even a snowflake’s chance in hell Justin Langer wasn’t going to argue passionately for Mitch Marsh’s retention in Sydney?"

Another pundit wrote: "Can’t say that I’m shocked that Justin Langer thinks Mitch Marsh should stay in the team. He’s half the problem of picking good blokes instead of the best team possible. Sick of hearing his absolute garbage."

While a third added: "I usually respect Justin Langer’s opinion, but regarding Mitch Marsh, I think his judgement is impeded by state loyalties and mateship. Thankfully he is not a selector, but how many current selectors have similar mindsets?"