Living cricket, Shaun style

“Zinta is very bubbly and full of energy,” says Marsh. “She meets the players after every game and brightens their spirit. Her presence helps the team to bond.” Likewise, Zinta responds: “Shaun Marsh has had a positive influence on the team.”

Marsh has been an instant hit with the team. Some even feel that the absence of another Aussie, Simon Katich, has turned out to be a blessing in disguise. But the son of legendary Geoff Marsh, having virtually grown up in the Aussie dressing room, always knew Cricket would be his life. “They were big names in Australian cricket — David Boon, Allan Border, Craig McDermott, Steve Waugh, Dean Jones. I grew up sensing their way of preparing and approaching a match,” he recalls.

His flourish as an opening bat comes from father Geoff. Marsh has been called up to the Australian ODI side for the West Indies tour, but right now he is focussing on the game against Bangalore.