Tasmanian all-rounder Beau Webster has been added to Australia’s squad for the second Test against India, set to begin on December 6 in Adelaide.
Webster’s selection comes as cover for Mitchell Marsh, who experienced soreness after Australia’s 295-run loss in the first Test in Perth. While Marsh remains in contention to play as a specialist batter, concerns over his bowling fitness prompted Webster’s inclusion.
Webster’s rise to the national squad is the result of consistent performances in domestic cricket. Named the Sheffield Shield Player of the Year last summer, the 30-year-old achieved a rare milestone by scoring over 900 runs and taking 30 wickets in a single seasonâmatching a feat previously accomplished only by Sir Garry Sobers. His form has continued this summer, with 448 runs at an average of 56 and 16 wickets, including key contributions for Australia A against India A. In the recent Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales, Webster scored 61 and 49, and his late two-wicket burst sealed Tasmania’s first win of the season.
Who is Beau Webster
He also boasts of being a versatile cricketer. Webster transitioned from an off-spinner to a medium pacer four years ago. He now combines his seam-bowling prowess with occasional off-spin when conditions demand it. Additionally, he is regarded as one of the finest slip catchers in Australian cricket, which further enhances his value to the team.
“To get a few runs and wickets (for Australia A) was pleasing against a strong Indian side,” Webster said ahead of the announcement.
“Any time you’re playing ‘A’ cricket, it’s the one step below Test level, so it does hold you in good stead.
“To get the call from ‘Bails’ (men’s selection chair George Bailey) at the end of the NSW game was a really proud moment and I can’t wait to get stuck in.
Australia coach Andrew McDonald had initially planned to retain the same 13-man squad for Adelaide. However, Marsh’s fitness remains a concern, particularly after he bowled the most overs he has delivered in a game in three years. With the all-rounder having limited bowling in the past seven months, Webster’s inclusion provides Australia with a reliable option to balance the attack.
Webster’s performances in Australia A’s 2-0 series win over India A also showed his readiness for the next level. He scored 145 runs across four innings, including crucial unbeaten knocks during successful run chases, and claimed seven wickets at an average of 19.57, six of which came at MCG. His captain at Tasmania, Jordan Silk, hailed Webster as a “special player” who consistently delivers in pressure situations.
Australia squad for 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