Australian batsman Shaun Marsh radiantly responds his critics by smashing a blistering unbeaten century, which helped Australia finish on a commanding position with the balance of the match in their favor at the end of day 2.

The 34-year-old experienced left-hander, who smashed his fifth century (126 off 231 balls) in his 25th Test, lifted the hosts Australian side to 442 for eight declared.

Shaun Marsh, along with wicketkeeper Tim Paine, were the major surprise inclusion into the Australian Ashes squad for the first two Tests, finally silenced his critics after a very timely and match-defining century. He backed up his 51 in Brisbane to bring his series tally to 177 runs and strengthen Australia’s middle order.

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As per AFP, Marsh told reporters at the after match press conference, “There’s a lot of relief there. I’m just really happy. I haven’t thought about all the incidental noise (criticism) and my selection for the team. I’ve just tried to come in and feel nice and relaxed. I’ve felt good about my game the last three or four months.”

On being asked about the criticism over his Ashes selection, Marsh replied, “I didn’t read a thing. I knew there was some extra noise but I just stayed away and focused on preparing well. Six months ago I wasn’t sure whether I’d be back here. I’d always dreamt of getting back in.”

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It was his first Ashes Test hundred, hitting 15 fours and a towering six off Stuart Broad. Marsh also revealed that he was quite nervous after seeking a review when he was given out leg before wicket on 29 to James Anderson, but the decision was in favor of the star batsman.

Marsh concluded by saying, “I probably thought it was outside leg more than going over. When I saw the ball pitch in line I thought I might have been in a bit of trouble.”