Beau Webster delivered a standout performance for Tasmania, claiming his first five-wicket haul of the summer on November 7, 2023, against South Australia in Hobart. Despite Webster’s impressive figures of 5-50, Tasmania’s batting lineup faltered, leaving his chances of retaining a spot in the national Test team uncertain.
On a challenging day for the Tigers, they dismissed South Australia for just 177 runs, responding to Tasmania’s first-innings total of 209. After a promising start, Tasmania’s batting collapsed dramatically, losing nine wickets in an extended final session. By the end of the second day, the hosts found themselves precariously positioned at 9-177, maintaining a narrow lead of 209 runs. Henry Thornton played a crucial role for South Australia, claiming two wickets in the final over, adding pressure on Tasmania as they struggled to build a substantial lead.
Webster contributed with the bat as well, scoring eight runs before being dismissed. Despite the disappointing outcome for his team, Webster’s bowling performance was a highlight, showcasing his skills in a tense match. Nevertheless, the return of fellow Australian cricketer Cameron Green to bowling duties for Western Australia puts additional pressure on Webster’s Test selection. Green, who recently recovered from side soreness, performed well, taking an early wicket and demonstrating his fitness ahead of the first Test set to begin on November 21, 2023.
The selectors now face a dilemma: should they retain Webster or opt for a specialist opener, such as his Tasmania teammate Jake Weatherald? Weatherald’s performance in this match, scoring 30 runs before being dismissed, adds another layer of consideration. His inclusion would allow Marnus Labuschagne to bat in his preferred No. 3 position, which could enhance the team’s overall performance.
Webster’s exceptional bowling performance included dismissals of key players such as Travis Head, whom he caught behind, and he demonstrated skill by bowling out Liam Scott and drawing an edge from Jake Doran. He also took the final wicket of the South Australian innings, showcasing his effectiveness as Tasmania’s leading bowler on the day.
Test wicketkeeper Alex Carey praised Webster’s consistency, stating, “Beau does what Beau does, just gets in a nice area. In conditions like that, he gets a lot out of it.” Carey himself was the standout batsman for South Australia, scoring 59 runs, the only player to pass 50 in a low-scoring match characterized by challenging weather conditions that included rain and hail.
As Tasmania looks to regroup ahead of the final day, the focus will be on how they can rebound from this tough performance. With crucial Test selections on the horizon, the team will need to assess both individual performances and overall strategies to ensure they are competitive in the upcoming matches.
