Who is Beau Webster? Meet the Australian all-rounder who replaced Mitchell Marsh

All-rounder Beau Webster is set to make his Test debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the New Year's Test against India. Webster will replace the out-of-form Mitchell Marsh in Australia's playing XI. 

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Marsh had endured a tough time at the crease with just 73 runs in his seven innings at an average of 10.42 and had only bowled 33 overs. Captain Pat Cummins stated that it was Marrsh's poor form that led to Webster being called up for debut. Here's what he told reporters:

"Mitchy obviously hasn't quite got the runs, and perhaps wickets this series. It's a shame for Mitchy, because we know how much he brings to the team, but feel like now it's a good week for Beau to get a chance."

All you need to know about Beau Webster

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Webster meanwhile has been in fine form over the past couple of years. He scored 938 runs in the Sheffield shield last year at an average of 58.62 and also picked up 30 wickets, becoming the first player since sir Garfield Sobers to manage the double of 900 runs and 30 wickets in the Sheffield Shield. 

He has scored 1837 runs at an average of 51.01 since the start of the 2022/23 season. In the four games this season in the Sheffield Shield, Webster has scored 303 runs at 50.50 and has also picked up eight scalps. 

Here's what Pat Cummins had to say about Webster's debut:

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"Really excited for Beau; the first thing he [Marsh] said was 'I can't wait to see Beau go out there and give it a crack'," Cummins said. "Particularly here in Australia, I think when a batter misses out or gets dropped, it's always seen as a big thing. But the way that [Australia coach Andrew McDonald], and the selectors and myself look at is we love pulling a squad of players together who we can call on at different times."

Australia are 2-1 up in the five-match Test series with the Sydney Test to begin on Friday, January 3.

In conclusion, Beau Webster's inclusion in Australia's playing XI for the New Year's Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground marks a significant moment in his cricketing career. Replacing the out-of-form Mitchell Marsh, Webster brings a wealth of recent success in the Sheffield Shield, where he has demonstrated his prowess with both bat and ball. Captain Pat Cummins and the team management have expressed confidence in Webster's abilities, and his debut is highly anticipated. With Australia leading the series 2-1, Webster's performance could play a crucial role in securing a series victory for the team.

For more updates and betting opportunities, visit Sky247.