The fifth and last Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3. Before this decisive match, there has been a big change in the Australian team. Captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been dropped from the team due to poor form, and will be replaced by Beau Webster on his Test debut.
Marsh’s poor performance became the reason for being out.
Mitchell Marsh was seen struggling with both bat and ball in this series. He scored only 73 runs in four Test matches at an average of 10.42, of which 47 runs came in the second innings of the Perth Test. He was also ineffective in bowling, bowling only 33 overs in seven innings and taking just one wicket for 127 runs in the last 28 overs.
Beau Webster: Golden opportunity to debut
Beau Webster has been brilliant in the Sheffield Shield. Last season, he scored 938 runs at an average of 58.62 and also took 30 wickets at an average of 29.30. He is the second player in Shield history after Sir Garfield Sobers to score 900+ runs and take 30+ wickets in a single season. This season too, he scored 303 runs in four matches at an average of 50.50 and took nine wickets.
Captain Cummins’ statement
Pat Cummins said,
“Mitchell Marsh could not contribute to this series as he wanted. We felt that the team needed new energy. Beau has been excellent in domestic cricket, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to prove himself. We know how much Marsh means to the team, but this change is the need of the hour.”
stark will play
There were questions over Mitchell Starc’s participation due to a rib injury suffered during the Melbourne Test, but captain Cummins has confirmed that Starc is fully fit and will play the Sydney Test.
Australia’s playing eleven
- Sam Constas
- Usman Khawaja
- marnus labuschagne
- steve smith
- travis head
- beau webster
- Alex Carey (wicketkeeper)
- Pat Cummins (captain)
- Mitchell Starc
- nathan lyon
- Scott Boland
Australia is leading the series 2-1 and would like to secure a place in the WTC final by winning the Sydney Test. On the other hand, by winning this Test, India would like to not only draw the series but also keep their hopes of the WTC final alive.
