Australia all-rounder Beau Webster has acknowledged that he might not make the playing XI for the first Ashes Test, depending on the team’s batting lineup. However, he remains optimistic about his chances of contributing to the series if given the opportunity.
Uncertainty Surrounding His Role in the Ashes
With the first Ashes Test set to begin on November 19 in Perth, Webster understands that team selection will be complicated, especially with Pat Cummins ruled out due to a back injury. This leaves a potential gap in the top order that the team must fill.
“We’ve obviously got a potential hole around the top of the order there, and see who fills that. If they see me as a pure middle-order player, then I’m probably going to get squeezed out. That is what it is,” Webster said.
He further added that, although he wasn’t guaranteed a spot like George Bailey, he remains hopeful about his inclusion.
“I hope I’m still in the conversation, certainly as a batter only. If not, if it’s just the makeup of the team, I’ll plug the way back in first-class cricket. There’s a lot of Test cricket coming up in the next two years. I hope I’ll be thereabouts,” Webster stated.
Webster’s Aspirations for the Ashes
Webster expressed his desire to be part of the squad, especially given his current form.
“I’d obviously love to be in the XI. I think I’ve got a lot to contribute there, and especially in this Ashes series. I feel like I’m playing the best cricket of my life at the moment. So I certainly want to be there,” Webster added.
However, he acknowledged that the final decision will depend on team balance, and it might not be just about his individual performance.
“Sometimes it’s the make-up of the team and the balance, and the overs and who bats where. It feels like this series has probably got more questions over that than any before.”
Time Away From the Game Beneficial for Webster
Despite the uncertainty, Webster feels that the time off the field has helped him refresh both mentally and physically. After playing nearly the entire winter for Australia and Warwickshire in the county championship, he welcomed the break.
“I think there’s some benefits, no doubt. I think looking back, I did play a lot of cricket in England, and that’s by choice. I play my best cricket when I’m constantly playing. To have a three-week gap there, it was nice to get back in the gym and do some running and probably freshen the body up physically, ready to go for a big summer,” Webster reflected.
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