The reason behind Marcus Stoinis’ emergence as an international star

A RELAXED attitude is behind Marcus Stoinis’ emergence as an international star and his good form in the Big Bash but he’s determined to help Melbourne Stars to their first win before he joins the Aussie one-day team.

Marcus Stoinis is run out on 99 against Brisbane Heat. Picture: AAP

MARCUS Stoinis has been batting like a man with music in his ears during the Big Bash and has his mind locked in on having fun.

Now a locked and loaded member of the Australian one-day squad, Stoinis said his emergence as an international star came through having a clear mind when he goes out to bat.

As he jiggled his shoulders about and bobbed his head during his first Big Bash hit out in Brisbane it was clear he was certainly relaxed.

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And the stunning innings of 99, with his century thwarted only by a run-out in search of three figures, was evidence of cricketer in the zone.

“I’m just trying to have fun, and relax, and keep a good vibe to it. I want to stay clear in my head and not get caught up in too many situations,” Stoinis said ahead of Saturday’s MCG showdown with cross-town rivals the Melbourne Renegades.

But don’t misunderstand his relaxed attitude for carelessness.

Marcus Stoinis has been in top form for the Melbourne Stars. Picture: Getty Images

Instead, Stoinis has been able to get his right mindset at the crease because of his thorough preparation and planning.

Stoinis said knowing what he needed to do in a match, more than worrying about his batting technique, had become keys to his recent success.

“It’s preparation, trying to be as smart as you can, the tactics you are going to take in to a game,” he said.

“It’s much less about technique as it is about a mindset and a game plan and a structure to your preparation.”

He conceded that his preparation, and that of his Stars’ teammates, had to be spot-on this week as the men in green looked for a first win of this BBL season.

The Stars have lost their opening three games, and while it’s not panic stations with seven games left in the longer BBL season Stoinis, who won’t be around for most after he leaves to join the Aussie one-day team, said a win now would certainly help his team’s cause.

“It’s a must win for us,” he said.

“We have started a bit slowly, but it’s a long competition, longer than the past few years.

“We have had a slow start before and still come back.”