Time spares no one, but when opportunity knocked on 31-year-old Beau Webster’s door, the Australian all-rounder seized the moment. On his Test debut during the fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy match, Webster delivered a pivotal performance, scoring a resilient half-century and claiming his maiden Test wicket. His contributions proved vital as Australia scrambled to 181 in their first innings against a relentless Indian attack.
Webster walked in amidst a batting collapse, with Australia desperately needing stability. Displaying grit and composure, he scored a determined 57 runs, ensuring his team eked out a slender four-run lead. Reflecting on his performance, Webster said, “It’s been a whirlwind of a Test, hasn’t it? With so many wickets falling, I’m just happy to contribute—with the bat, a few catches, and even that wicket. It’s been a special start.”
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He credited his team’s support for his success, noting, “The backing from the squad to play my natural game has been incredible. My focus was on defending the stumps and scoring wherever possible. It was nerve-wracking initially, but once I settled in, it was business as usual.”
India began their second innings with confidence as openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided a solid start. However, Scott Boland’s brilliance turned the tide, as he dismantled India’s middle order with a four-wicket haul, leaving the visitors under pressure. At 59 for three, India looked vulnerable, but Rishabh Pant’s electrifying counterattack changed the momentum. His 33-ball 61, featuring the second-fastest Test fifty by an Indian, gave India a fighting edge before his dismissal.
Beau Webster, who celebrated Pant’s wicket with visible relief, remarked, “It’s a real battle out there. We’re still figuring out what a good score might be, given the pitch’s unpredictability. Pant’s innings was dangerous, so getting him out was a big relief.”
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With India at 141 for six by stumps and holding a 145-run lead, the match hangs in the balance. Webster added, “If I’m called to bat again, I’ll be ready. But ideally, we’ll get the job done with the ball tomorrow.”
As Day 3 beckons, the SCG prepares for more thrilling action in this nail-biting contest.
