IND vs AUS: Who is Beau Webster? Australia's Test debutant and new threat for India in Sydney

After struggling to find his rhythm, Mitchell Marsh has been dropped from Australia’s squad for the final Test against India, scheduled to kick off on Friday, January 3, in Sydney. Stepping into his place is 31-year-old Beau Webster, who will be making his Test debut. But who exactly is this newcomer?

With four matches already played, Australia currently leads the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Following Sam Konstas' impressive debut in the last match where he scored a half-century it is now Beau Webster's turn to rise to the occasion and present a fresh challenge to India in the series decider.

In anticipation of the fifth Australia vs India Test match, Australian captain Pat Cummins has confirmed Beau Webster's inclusion in the playing XI, with the goal of reclaiming the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy after an eight-year wait.

Who is Beau Webster?

Beau Jacob Webster was born on December 1, 1993, in the country town of Snug, located just a 30-minute drive south of Hobart. He completed his higher secondary education at Kingston High School. Webster quickly gained attention while playing age-group cricket for Tasmania, representing the U-17, U-19, and U-23 teams.

Webster is a well-known figure in Australian domestic cricket. Primarily a batsman who also bowls medium pace, Webster has amassed an impressive record in his career. He has scored 5297 runs in 93 first-class games at an average of 37.83, including 12 centuries and 24 fifties. In List A cricket, he has played 54 games and scored 1317 runs at an average of 31.35, with one century and seven fifties to his name.

In T20 cricket, Webster has played 93 matches and scored 1700 runs at an average of 26.98, with a strike rate of 118.71, including 11 half-centuries. As an all-rounder, he has also taken 148 first-class wickets at an average of 37.39, with three four-fors and two five-wicket hauls. In List A matches, he has claimed 44 victims, and in T20s, he has taken 24 wickets.

Webster has had success in the Big Bash League (BBL) as well, scoring 1463 runs and taking 18 wickets. He has represented Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Renegades in the BBL and currently plays for Melbourne Stars.

In the upcoming New Year 2025 match, Webster will make his debut for the national team, batting at number six. The match will also mark the return of left-arm speedster Mitchell Starc after a back/rib issue.

Australia's playing XI for Sydney Test: Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.

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