Australia has named uncapped all-rounder Beau Webster as a standby for Mitchell Marsh ahead of the second Test against India in Adelaide. The 30-year-old, who has been in outstanding form in domestic cricket, could make his Test debut if Marsh fails to recover from lingering fitness issues. Marsh experienced soreness following Australia’s crushing 295-run defeat in the first Test at Perth, prompting selectors to draft Webster as a precaution.
Cover for Marsh’s Fitness Concerns
Australian skipper Pat Cummins revealed Marsh has been dealing with minor injuries since the team’s UK tour. “He was a little sore towards the end of the Perth Test, so the next 10 days will be crucial for his recovery. We’ll assess his condition before the next match,” Cummins said.
With the day-night Test in Adelaide just days away, Webster’s inclusion offers Australia a reliable backup option. Known for his versatility as a right-arm pacer and middle-order batter, Webster could fill a crucial role if Marsh is deemed unfit.
Webster’s Stellar Domestic Record
Hailing from Tasmania, Webster has been a standout performer in the Sheffield Shield over the past two years. He amassed 1,788 runs during this period, including five centuries and nine half-centuries. This season alone, he has scored 448 runs at an impressive average of 56, alongside claiming 16 wickets.
In Tasmania’s recent Sheffield Shield clash against New South Wales, Webster showcased his all-round prowess with scores of 61 and 49, coupled with five wickets across both innings. His exceptional performances in first-class cricket include match-winning contributions for Australia A, highlighted by unbeaten knocks of 61 and 46 and bowling figures of 3-19 and 3-49 in a series win against India A.
Last season, Webster achieved a rare feat in the Sheffield Shield’s 132-year history, becoming only the second player—after legendary all-rounder Sir Garry Sobers—to score over 900 runs and take 30 wickets in a single season.
Praise from Teammates and Coaches
Tasmanian captain Jordan Silk lauded Webster’s ability to deliver in critical moments. “He’s a special player. Whether it’s with the ball or bat, he has a knack for rescuing the team when we’re in trouble,” said Silk. “In our last game, his contributions with the bat and the ball were invaluable. He’s the kind of player every captain loves to have.”
Australia’s Approach for the Adelaide Test
Despite the heavy defeat in Perth, Australia has retained the same squad for the second Test, signaling limited changes to the playing XI. However, Webster’s inclusion provides the selectors with flexibility, particularly in the event of Marsh’s unavailability.
The day-night Test in Adelaide presents an opportunity for Webster to translate his domestic success onto the international stage if handed a debut. For Australia, his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game could prove instrumental as they aim to level the series against a dominant Indian side.
