January 2, 2025: Ahead of the Sydney Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), Australia captain Pat Cummins discussed the inclusion of Beau Webster in the playing XI, calling it a much-needed “freshen up” for the squad. Webster, who will make his Test debut, replaces Mitchell Marsh, with the decision being a strategic one based on Marsh’s underwhelming performance in the series so far.
Cummins acknowledged that Marsh had not quite delivered the runs or wickets that were expected of him in this series. While Marsh is a proven asset to the team, the captain felt it was the right time to give Webster a chance, especially given the all-rounder’s recent form in first-class cricket. “Mitchell Marsh obviously hasn’t quite got the runs or perhaps wickets that he would have liked in this series. It felt like it was time for a freshen up, and Beau has been with the squad, he’s been great. It’s a shame for Marsh because we know how much he brings to the team, but I feel like now is a good week for Beau to get a chance,” Cummins said.
Webster will become the 469th Test player for Australia and is expected to take the sixth batter spot in the team. His inclusion is seen as a reflection of his solid domestic performances, including 12 wickets in his last three first-class matches. Most recently, he took six wickets and scored an unbeaten 46 in the Australia A vs. India A match in Melbourne, further justifying his selection.
Despite earlier concerns over his rib soreness, Mitchell Starc has been cleared to play and retains his place in the Australia XI.
The Australia XI for the final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is:
- Sam Konstas
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Beau Webster (debut)
- Alex Carey (WK)
- Pat Cummins (C)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Scott Boland
Australia currently leads the series 2-1, with the Sydney Test set to be a decisive battle. The inclusion of Webster and the team’s fresh approach indicate they are aiming to maintain their dominance and finish the series on a high.
