Australia Adds Beau Webster to Test Squad Amid Mitchell Marsh Fitness Concerns – Lotus365 Match Prediction

Beau Webster joins the Australia Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar series, providing cover for Mitchell Marsh. Check Lotus365 for match predictions and betting tips.

Australia Call Up Beau Webster to Test Squad Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Series Amid Marsh Fitness Concerns

In a surprising development ahead of the next Border-Gavaskar Test in Adelaide, Australia has added Beau Webster to their squad. This decision comes amidst concerns over the fitness of Mitchell Marsh, the allrounder who had a challenging start to the series. Despite initially stating that the squad would remain unchanged for the Adelaide Test, coach Andrew McDonald made the call to bring in Webster, a reward for his outstanding performances in first-class cricket.

Mitchell Marsh's Fitness Struggles: Marsh, 33, suffered from soreness following Australia's heavy 295-run defeat in the series opener at Perth's Optus Stadium. He had bowled 17 overs during the match, his heaviest workload in three years. McDonald later acknowledged that Marsh had not entered the series with sufficient bowling fitness, as Australia was without their first-choice fourth seamer, Cameron Green, who is sidelined with a stress fracture.

Despite these fitness concerns, Marsh may still retain his place in the playing XI for Adelaide, but he is likely to feature as a pure batter. This move would place more pressure on the frontline bowlers, especially with the third Test in Brisbane looming just four days after the Adelaide match concludes.

Beau Webster's Impressive First-Class Record: The call-up of Beau Webster comes after a stellar few seasons in the Sheffield Shield. Last year, he became only the second player in history, after Sir Garfield Sobers, to score over 900 runs and take 30 wickets in a single season. This season, he has already racked up 448 runs at an average of 56 and has taken 16 wickets in first-class cricket. His recent performances against India A include useful knocks of 61 and 46**, alongside impressive figures of 3 for 19 and 3 for 49.

Webster expressed his excitement at the call-up: "To get a few runs and wickets for Australia A was pleasing against a strong Indian side. Any time you're playing 'A' cricket, it's one step below Test level, so it does hold you in good stead. To get the call from Bails (selector George Bailey) at the end of the NSW game was a really proud moment, and I can't wait to get stuck in."

With a quick turnaround between the Adelaide and Gabba Test, Webster is expected to provide cover for the middle-order, depending on the team’s strategy.

Australia’s Squad for the Second Test:

• Pat Cummins (c)

• Scott Boland

• Alex Carey (wk)

• Josh Hazlewood

• Travis Head

• Josh Inglis

• Usman Khawaja

• Marnus Labuschagne

• Nathan Lyon

• Mitch Marsh

• Nathan McSweeney

• Steve Smith

• Mitchell Starc

• Beau Webster

Match Predictions & Betting Tips on Lotus365:

As Australia gears up for the second Border-Gavaskar Test, fans and bettors can keep an eye on potential match predictions. While Australia's strength in batting is unquestionable, the team’s success will depend on whether Marsh can contribute with the bat and how the frontline bowlers perform under pressure. The addition of Beau Webster could be a game-changer, especially with his all-round abilities.

For expert match predictions, betting tips, and odds, visit Lotus365. Whether you are placing bets on Australia’s performance or on individual player performances, our team provides detailed match predictions to help you make informed choices. Check out our Sports Betting page for more. credits-https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-news/132568/australia-add-beau-webster-to-test-squad-amid-marsh-fitness-concerns