The uncapped Beau Webster who features for Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield has been added to the Australia squad for the upcoming Test against India in Border Gavaskar Trophy.
With concerns on Mitchell Marsh’s fitness raised ahead of the second test, the Tasmanian has been handed his maiden international call-up despite head coach Andrew McDonald that the hosts would have unchanged 13-man squad for the day-night test that begin on December 06.
In the unofficial test series against India A, Webster was the second highest run getter for Australia A with 145 runs at an average of 72.50. He also picked seven scalps at an average below 20.
JUST IN: A fresh face confirmed for the Aussie Test squad heading to Adelaide! #AUSvIND
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— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 28, 2024
It is the first international call-up for Webster and the 30-year old was thrilled to receive the news.
“To get a few runs and wickets (for Australia A) was pleasing against a strong Indian side,” Webster said.
“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’ (selection chair George Bailey) at the end of the NSW (Shield) game was a really proud moment and I can’t wait to get stuck in.
“There’s a tight turnaround between the Adelaide and Gabba Test so I think (I’m there) just to have some cover there for that middle-order role, whichever way they go.”
Webster’s addition will boost Australia’s pace resources and could serve as the solid backup for Marsh.
Marsh feature Perth test and bowled 17 overs, the most he has bowled in a test since 2019 Oval test. Marsh suffered a injury concern earlier in the year and has limited his bowling spell.
Meanwhile Webster has over 5000 FC runs and close to 150 first class wickets in his career. After suffering a 295-runs, Australia will be looking to get back on India in the second test which starts on December 06 at Adelaide Oval.
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
