Australia has dropped all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for the final Test against India in Sydney, with captain Pat Cummins confirming Tasmanian all-rounder Beau Webster will make his Test debut. Cummins announced that Marsh’s omission was the only change to the squad, with Mitchell Starc fit to play despite dealing with rib and back issues.
Marsh struggled throughout the series, scoring just 73 runs at an average of 10.42 across four Tests, with 47 of those runs coming in a lost cause in Perth. With the ball, he bowled sparingly, delivering 33 overs in seven innings and managing just 1 wicket for 127 runs in his last 28 overs. Webster’s selection comes on the back of his strong form in domestic cricket. Last season, he topped the Sheffield Shield run charts with 938 runs at 58.62 and claimed 30 wickets at 29.30.
He remains one of only two players in Shield history to score over 900 runs and take 30 wickets in the same season. Cummins expressed excitement over Webster’s inclusion, highlighting his ability to contribute as a sixth batter and fifth bowling option. “Beau’s been great around the squad and has proven himself with Tasmania and Australia A. His performances show he can change games, and we’re thrilled to see him debut,” Cummins said.
Marsh, despite his close ties with Cummins and his popularity within the team, accepted the decision gracefully. “He understands he hasn’t delivered the runs or wickets he wanted this series,” Cummins explained, adding that the door remains open for Marsh’s return. Webster’s ability to take on a more significant bowling workload factored into the selectors’ decision. His strong batting and versatility as a pace-bowling option offer balance to the team, particularly in a short turnaround.
The Sydney Test will conclude the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, with Webster’s debut adding intrigue to the contest.
