Australia has included uncapped all-rounder Beau Webster in their squad for the second Test against India, providing cover for Mitchell Marsh, who is dealing with fitness concerns. Marsh pulled up “sore” following Australia’s 295-run defeat in the first Test in Perth earlier this week. Webster, a right-handed pace-bowling all-rounder like Marsh, has been a standout performer in the Sheffield Shield over the past two seasons, scoring 1,788 runs with five centuries and nine fifties.
Webster showcased his all-round abilities in Tasmania’s recent Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales, where he scored 61 and 49 and claimed five wickets. Reflecting on his form, Webster expressed his excitement. “To get a few runs and wickets (for Australia A) against a strong Indian side was pleasing,” he told cricket.com.au before the squad announcement.
“Playing ‘A’ cricket is a step below Test level, so it prepares you well. Getting the call from ‘Bails’ (men’s selection chair George Bailey) after the NSW game was a proud moment. I can’t wait to get involved. With the quick turnaround between the Adelaide and Gabba Tests, I’m there to provide cover for the middle order, depending on the team’s needs,” Webster added.
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Notably, Webster, who was named Sheffield Shield Player of the Year last summer, added seam bowling to his skill set only four years ago, further enhancing his value as an all-rounder. He will join the squad in Adelaide next week.
Despite the heavy loss in the series opener, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that no changes would be made to the playing XI for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide starting on December 6.
In related news, Jack Nisbett has replaced Jem Ryan in the Prime Minister’s XI for the match against India in Canberra this weekend. Ryan sustained a foot injury during the weekend.
Australia squad for the second Test:
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.