Justin Langer backs Shaun Marsh to be aggressive against India

MItchell Marsh and Shaun Marsh (L)

Brisbane, Dec 16 (IANS) Former Australian batsman Justin Langer has backed Shaun Marsh to take the attack up to India's bowlers when the batsman joins his brother Mitchell in Australia's side for the second Test, starting Wednesday.

Langer said Marsh, who had been on standby for the injured skipper Michael Clarke in Adelaide during the first Test, would be better equipped to make a mark on his latest stint at the Test level. His return to the team was confirmed when Clarke was ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury, which will be operated upon tomorrow.

"He's having a crack at it and has the confidence to play his game, which is to be nice and aggressive and take it to the Indian bowlers," Langer said.

Marsh will bat in the middle order, most likely in the No.4 position vacated by Clarke unless stand-in captain Steve Smith moves up the order.

"He's been batting five for Western Australia and had great success here over the last couple of seasons," Langer said.

"That suits him so that he can go and play his natural game which is to be really positive and taking it to the bowlers. I'm hopeful he can do it in the Test match as well."