All-rounder Beau Webster will make his Test debut for Australia, replacing Mitchell Marsh for the fifth Test against India, as announced by captain Pat Cummins on Thursday.
Australia won the fourth Test by 184 runs in Melbourne earlier this week, taking a 2-1 series lead. However, they must avoid a loss in Sydney to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in ten years.
Marsh, who is also Australia’s Twenty20 captain, has scored only 73 runs in the first four Tests and bowled infrequently since Australia bounced back from a heavy defeat in the Perth opener.
“Beau’s been in the squad for a few Tests now, and Mitchy hasn’t quite got the runs or wickets he would have liked, so we thought it was time for a fresh start,” Cummins told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
“It’s unfortunate for Mitchy because we know what he brings to the team, but we feel like this is a good opportunity for Beau.”
Cummins explained that Marsh’s place in the team was initially based on his ability as a top-six batter, with his bowling considered an added bonus when performing well with the bat.
Webster, 31, has yet to represent Australia in any format but has accumulated 5,297 runs and taken 148 wickets in 93 first-class matches, primarily with Tasmania.
“He’s been a standout performer for Tasmania, whether with the bat, ball, or in the field,” said Cummins. “He’s aggressive and has the ability to change a game, much like Mitch Marsh, Travis Head, or Alex Carey in the middle order.”
The introduction of Webster is the only change to the team, with Mitchell Starc included despite dealing with a back issue during the fourth Test.
“Starcy just grits his teeth and gets on with it,” said Cummins. “He’s never one to talk about being rested or rotated. He’s determined to play for Australia.”
Starc underwent a scan and was cleared to play in this crucial match, which holds significant importance for the series and the World Test Championship. A victory in this Test would secure Australia’s place in the final against South Africa.
