The decision paid off as Marsh scored 130 in the first innings - a commendable knock considering the horrid time Australian batsmen have had so far in the series.
His century and the 246-run stand with Steve Smith (119) meant the visitors were able to notch up a 24-run lead in the first innings on Monday (August 15). Reflecting on a successful comeback, Marsh expressed his delight at batting in the company of his skipper and the challenge ahead.
"It was hard work out there. [I] had a good partnership with the captain and really happy," Marsh gushed. "I was trying to play with a straight bat. If it spun past me, so be it. It was really challenging out there. It's going to go deep into the fourth-fifth day, so it's going to be very challenging for us.
"I haven't tried to focus on that (time away from the team) too much. I was just focusing on my job. It's great to be back playing Test cricket for Australia. To be out here today was a lot of fun."
Sri Lanka ended the day on 22 for 1, just two runs shy of wiping off the deficit. Marsh reckoned Australia will need early wickets on the fourth day to have a chance of ending a dismal tour with a win.
"It's pretty evenly balanced at the moment," he pointed out. "First session will be key tomorrow. We will try and get some early wickets tomorrow and try and keep them down to as low as possible. We would have liked a few more but we have to play well tomorrow now."
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