Beau Webster 'researching' Indian bowlers as all-rounder hopeful of MCG debut

Australia all-rounder Beau Webster does not know if a Test debut is around the corner for him at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day, but the 31-year-old is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation, ensuring that he will be ‘ready to go’ should he be called upon.

Webster was drafted into Australia’s squad for the second Test in Adelaide but was released ahead of the third Test so that he could feature for the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League (BBL). But despite not knowing if he’ll be a part of the squad - and the playing XI - for the MCG Test, the all-rounder has quietly been studying his opponents.

“I try to get a gauge on things, try to watch a bit of India and sus a few of their bowlers, I don’t want to go in blind, I am doing some research,” Fox Sports quoted Webster as saying.

“If I did get the nod, nobody knows until they play at that level, but I think I’d be well-prepared and give it a good crack if it does happen.

“If it doesn’t happen or if it’s later down the track, then so be it, that’s part and parcel.”

Webster, who was the Sheffield Shield player of the year last season and impressed in the two unofficial Tests against India ‘A’ last month, described being part of the Adelaide Test squad as an ‘intoxicating’ experience. 

He only ran drinks, but the atmosphere has left him wanting more. 

“I think even just running drinks in Adelaide with that massive crowd there, and I wasn’t in Brisbane for long before I had to fly to Perth, but being in that Test buzz is really intoxicating,” Webster said.

“I am watching Travis Head out there smacking it to all parts, the boys taking wickets and celebrating, it makes me jealous, I want to be out there.

“I think every cricketer who is on the fringe will be thinking the same thing, it’s a wonderful and strong group, to be a part of that even as a drinks carrier, is great.”

In Brisbane, Australia were hamstrung after Josh Hazlewood broke down mid-match. Mitchell Marsh’s inability to take the load off Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins - Marsh only bowled two overs in the Test - meant that the two speedsters were overworked in the first innings. 

With Marsh having a torrid time with the bat this series, averaging 13.8, and due to his fitness preventing him from bowling regularly, it won’t be a surprise if the hosts hand a Boxing Day debut to Webster. 

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