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Australia have announced their playing XI for the upcoming fifth and final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 3. Interestingly, the Australian selectors have taken the decision to abandon the all-rounder. michel marsh of the playing eleven, giving way to the talented Tasmanian all-rounder.
Mitchell Marsh struggled with form in BGT 2024-25
Notably, Marsh, the reigning Allan Border Medal winner, has had a challenging series against India, managing just 73 runs in seven innings at an average of 10.42. His highest contribution was 47 in the first Test at Perth, and his form dipped significantly thereafter.
Marsh’s struggles with the bat were compounded by his limited impact with the ball, as he bowled just 13 overs without taking a wicket in the last three Tests. This performance caused an outcry among fans and experts asking for a change in the squad.
Australian captain Pat Cummins confirmed the development in a press conference on Thursday, expressing both disappointment and optimism regarding the change.
“Mitchy obviously doesn’t have the runs and wickets he would have liked in this series. “It’s a shame for Mitchy because we know how much he brings to the team, but we feel like now is a good week for Beau to get a chance.” Cummins stated.
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The Tasmanian star will replace Marsh in the final eleven
Beau Websterwho has been in good form in domestic cricket, has been called in to replace Marsh. Averaging 57.1 with the bat and taking 81 wickets at 31.7 in first-class cricket since March 2022, Webster will become Australia’s 469th cricketer. His versatility as a player who can achieve speed and spin while bowling has probably contributed to his selection.
The decision to include Webster comes at a crucial time as Australia seeks to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which has been in India’s possession since the 2014-15 series. With the series currently 2-1 in favor of Australia, the SCG Test could determine the winner of the series. A win or draw for Australia would see them regain the trophy for the first time in almost a decade.
Australia XI for fifth Test against India
Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
