Is Webster Prepared for the Challenge from Green in the Race for the Ashes All-Rounder Position?

Hobart, Aug 18 (NationPress) Australia's seam-bowling all-rounder Beau Webster has acknowledged that Cameron Green's return to bowling duties may place his Test position in jeopardy. This situation compels Webster to reaffirm his credentials during the upcoming Sheffield Shield season, as Australia prepares to defend the Ashes later this year.

Webster has made a strong impression during his first seven Tests since his debut in January, earning his spot through exceptional domestic form. Green made his comeback from back surgery for the World Test Championship final in June, participating as a batter only, and later played at number three in the series against the West Indies.

With Green expected to resume bowling this summer, the pressure on Webster's place in the playing eleven intensifies. "At this elite level, you are constantly fighting to maintain your spot among numerous exceptional cricketers across the country, particularly someone like Cameron Green," Webster stated.

"His return to bowling this summer will undoubtedly increase the competition for my position at number six as the all-rounder. However, I embrace this challenge. I've been in similar situations throughout my career where I needed to score runs to either advance or remain in a team. This is not new to me," he added.

"I’m eager to demonstrate my capabilities once more at the Shield level and hopefully secure a spot for the first Ashes Test in Perth. This summer promises to be monumental, and I anticipate changes in the team over the five Tests, but I will do everything possible to ensure my presence in all five," Webster shared with cricket.com.au on Monday.

Having signed a three-year deal with Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL, Webster expressed uncertainty regarding the selectors' preferences. "We have no insight into the selectors' mindset. Many commentators have their theories, but ultimately, it’s the three selectors, along with Patty (Cummins, the Test captain), who make the decisions regarding the squad and the first XI," he said.

Webster also reflected on his Test career thus far, admitting that despite passing fifty on four occasions, his lack of a century leaves the door slightly ajar. "I've faced some challenging conditions. The West Indies series was particularly tough for batters, and the conditions at Lord's during the World Test Championship final were also challenging with the lighting and clouds overhead," he noted.

"I believe I have managed to score some difficult runs. However, the absence of a hundred next to my name is disappointing; I would have loved to have converted one of those starts into a century. I feel I've been batting well and possess all the skills necessary to succeed this summer in the Ashes, regardless of what England may bring," he concluded.