Melbourne: Beau Webster, a versatile all-rounder, has been named in the Australian team as a replacement for Mitchell Marsh for the upcoming second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, scheduled to start on December 6 at the Adelaide Oval.
Webster's inclusion in the team follows his impressive performance in recent matches, including the series against India 'A'. During the unofficial 'Test' series against India A, Webster emerged as the second-highest scorer for Australia A with 145 runs at an average of 72.50, including a half-century, and also took seven wickets at an average below 20.
This call-up marks Webster's debut on the international stage, and at the age of 30, he was overjoyed to be selected.
"Achieving some runs and wickets against a formidable Indian team was rewarding," Webster shared, as reported by the ICC.
"Playing 'A' cricket is the next level below Test cricket, so it's a great opportunity. Receiving the call from 'Bails' (selection committee George Bailey) after the NSW (New South Wales) match was a moment of pride for me, and I'm eager to start."
Webster's presence in the team enhances Australia's fast bowling options and offers a reliable backup for Marsh, who has been sidelined due to a significant injury concern and has had limited opportunities to bowl in recent matches.
With 93 first-class matches under his belt, Webster has amassed 5,297 runs at an average of 37.83, including 12 centuries, and has taken 148 wickets at an average of 37.39, specializing in both off-spin and pace bowling, honing his skills in fast bowling during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
This season, Webster has scored 1,121 runs at an average of 53.38, hitting three centuries and five fifties, with his highest score being 167*.
In the match against Australia, India achieved a dominant performance in Perth, winning by a record-breaking margin of 295 runs. The second Test match between the two teams is set to begin on December 6 in Adelaide.
The Australian team for the second Test match: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wicket-keeper), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Nathan McSweeney, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
