Mitch Marsh dropped: Beau Webster set for Test debut at SCG

Australian all-rounder Mitch Marsh has been dropped for the fifth Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), paving the way for Tasmanian Beau Webster to make his Test debut.

The decision, confirmed by captain Pat Cummins, comes as Marsh’s form with both bat and ball faltered throughout the Border-Gavaskar series.

Marsh, who has scored just 20 runs in his past five innings and bowled sparingly due to lingering fitness concerns, acknowledged the decision without surprise.

“He wasn’t blindsided,” Cummins said.

“He knows he hasn’t got the runs or taken the wickets he would’ve liked. The first thing he said was, ‘I can’t wait to see Beau go out there and give it a crack.’”

Webster, 31, has been a standout in domestic cricket, amassing 938 runs in the Sheffield Shield last season—the most by any player—and taking 30 wickets.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball was a key factor in his selection.

Cummins highlighted Webster’s versatility, noting his capacity to bowl long spells and his proven ability to turn games around for Tasmania.

“If you’re going to bat at six, you’re picked for your batting,” Cummins said.

“But particularly with his pace bowling, Beau is going to be handy.”

Marsh’s omission marks a significant shift for the Australian side, with Webster bringing a new dynamic to the middle order.

The Tasmanian has transformed his game over the past few years, moving from part-time off-spin to seam bowling, which he says has become an integral part of his skill set.

“It’s a part of my game I’ve been really proud to develop,” Webster said.

“I can bowl long spells and have done for Tasmania. If that’s required for the national team, I’ll be ready.”

The decision to include Webster also provides added bowling depth, which Cummins believes is crucial given the short turnaround between Tests and the heavy workload borne by the pace attack.

Star quick Mitchell Starc, who was cleared to play despite a back scare during the greuling victory in the Boxing Day Test and will lead the bowling alongside Cummins, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon.

Webster’s inclusion caps a remarkable rise for the Tasmanian, who was also named Sheffield Shield Player of the Season. Known for his calm and consistency, he has become one of the most reliable performers in the domestic circuit.

His Test debut will make him Australia’s 469th men’s Test player and the first home-grown Tasmanian debutant in a decade.

While Marsh has been a popular figure in the squad, his struggles with the bat this series—scores of 9, 5, 4, 2, and 0—ultimately led to the selectors’ decision.

Cummins, however, was quick to emphasise that this does not mark the end of Marsh’s Test career. “It doesn’t mean he won’t be back in the team at some point,” the captain said.

The fifth Test carries significant implications, with Australia seeking their first Border-Gavaskar series win in a decade.

A win currently priced at $1.80 with the top cricket bookmakers or a draw ($5) would also secure Australia’s place in the World Test Championship final for the second consecutive time.

With Webster’s debut adding fresh energy to the side, the SCG Test promises to be a pivotal chapter in Australian cricket.

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