Beau Webster expresses his readiness to bat anywhere for Australia, having honed his skills over a decade of state cricket, positioning him for a potential Test debut in Adelaide. Webster was officially added to Australia’s squad for the second Test on Thursday, serving as a backup for the injured Mitch Marsh following the 294-run loss in Perth. It is anticipated that the Tasmanian will remain with the squad for the Brisbane Test, given the brief interval between matches, which bolsters his chances of making his debut. This call-up signifies Webster’s first inclusion in a senior national squad, a recognition of his impressive performance with two unbeaten half-centuries for Australia A this month.
A late bloomer who will celebrate his 31st birthday on Sunday, Webster has made a compelling case for selection over the past year. He was the top run-scorer in the Sheffield Shield last summer, amassing 938 runs at an average of 58.62 for Tasmania. This season, he has continued his stellar form, accumulating 448 runs at an average of 56 across all first-class cricket. Additionally, Webster offers versatility with the ball, having taken 30 wickets last season for Tasmania, showcasing his ability to deliver medium pace and spin.
Webster’s recent form has propelled him ahead of Aaron Hardie in Australia’s all-rounder rankings, potentially offering the team multiple tactical options. While Marsh’s fitness remains a concern, Marnus Labuschagne also faces pressure entering the second Test after a series of low scores. Although Webster has primarily batted in the middle order for Tasmania, his experience in the top order could make him a valuable substitute, given his all-round capabilities.
“I would be comfortable fulfilling whatever role they require,” Webster stated. “I feel I’ve done it all over the past 10 years, whether at the top or in the middle.” He anticipates a role “somewhere between that five or seven role with the bat and bowl some overs as well [if I do debut].” Webster’s debut in the Sheffield Shield dates back to February 2014, but he only recently emerged as a contender for the Test squad.
“If I do receive a baggy green in the near future, I believe my last 10 or 12 years of playing Sheffield Shield will serve me well,” he said. “Sheffield Shield is excellent cricket. It’s challenging, with only six teams, so it’s the best of the best available.” Webster remains focused, acknowledging that being added to the squad is one thing, but debuting is another.
Marsh’s injury also underscores the absence of Cameron Green in Australia’s Test lineup, especially given the extended duration of India’s second innings. The 33-year-old was tasked with bowling 17 overs in Australia’s 295-run defeat at Optus Stadium, marking his heaviest workload in any Test since 2019. Australia also relied on Labuschagne for 6.3 overs of spin and pace, the most he has bowled in any home Test since 2021.
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