In a rare and amusing crossover of sport and identity, Australian T20 captain and Perth Scorchers star Mitch Marsh met a younger namesake — newly drafted Adelaide Crows AFL player Mitch Marsh — ahead of the Scorchers’ recent BBL clash in Adelaide.
The elder Marsh, a veteran cricketer and former talented footballer, was delighted to meet the AFL’s No.22 draft pick who shares not just his name but also an athletic pedigree and the nickname “Bison.”
Two Mitch Marshs, one unique encounter
“I had a few people reach out saying he was a good prospect,” said Marsh in a media interaction in Adelaide. “I haven’t met any other Mitch Marsh’s in the world, so lucky there is one.”
The cricketing Marsh even posted a playful message on social media when the younger Marsh was drafted: “Great day and I’m very proud.”
While a North Melbourne supporter at heart, Marsh joked that he’ll be keeping a close eye on the Adelaide Crows this season.
“I’ve always gone for someone with the same name”
The younger Mitch Marsh, now an Adelaide Crow, was equally thrilled by the meeting.
“I’ve been watching him throughout my whole life,” he said. “I’ve always been a cricket supporter, and I’ve always gone for someone that has the same name as me. To be able to meet him is pretty cool.”
The senior Marsh, who represented Western Australia in the 2008 AFL Under-18 Championships, reflected on his own football journey and decision to stick with cricket.
“I was certainly more of an old school full forward,” Marsh joked. “I’m not sure I would’ve made it in today’s modern-day football where forwards have to defend. I think I made the right decision.”
Advice from one Bison to another
With 46 Tests, 99 ODIs, and the captaincy for Australia’s T20 World Cup squad, the elder Marsh offered some sage advice to the up-and-coming footballer.
“I think it’s an exciting time in Mitch’s life to be starting his career. He’s an Adelaide boy, so that’s even more special for him and his family. I think the main thing as a youngster is to learn, grow and enjoy what you’re doing.”
Marsh’s BBL heroics light up Adelaide Oval
Shortly after the meeting, the cricketing Mitch Marsh delivered a match-winning 88 against the Adelaide Strikers in the KFC BBL|15, leading the Scorchers to a convincing 32-run victory.
The Adelaide Crows kick off their 2026 AFL season on March 14, and all eyes will be on whether the younger Mitch Marsh can emulate his namesake’s impact at the iconic Adelaide Oval.
