NEW DELHI: Beau Webster, who has yet to play international cricket, is likely to join the Australian Test squad as back-up for Mitchell Marsh, who experienced minor injuries during the first Test match in Perth.
According to Fox Cricket’s report, Webster will be included in the squad for the second Test in Adelaide, which starts on December 6, and will be played under lights.
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“(Marsh) He has been battling a couple of little niggles since the UK tour,” Australian captain Pat Cummins said after the 295-run loss to India in the opening Test.
“He was a little sore towards the end of this Test match (Perth), so the next 10 days he has a chance to freshen up and try to get it right. We’ll see how he goes.”
In case Marsh fails to regain fitness before the second Test, Webster might receive his first international cap.
Originally from Tasmania, the 30-year-old has demonstrated exceptional performance in the Sheffield Shield across the previous two seasons, accumulating 1788 runs with five centuries and nine half-centuries. Like Marsh, he also bowls right-arm pace.
His recent impressive display in Tasmania’s Sheffield Shield fixture against New South Wales showcased his all-round abilities, where he scored 61 and 49 runs while claiming five wickets.
“(Webster’s) a special player at the moment,” Tasmanian captain Jordan Silk told reporters after the domestic game.
“Anytime I feel like we’re in trouble, I feel like I can throw him the ball and he just seems to be able to create something, or anytime we’re in similar trouble with the bat then he’s able to dig us out of it.
“He showed his class again in this game with valuable runs, first and second innings, and then obviously to take the last two wickets.”