Beau Webster’s international cricket career began in January during the fifth Test against India in Sydney.
A Honeymoon of Sorts for Beau Webster.
Following his April wedding to Maddie, the couple enjoyed a brief Tasmanian getaway before Webster commenced his Warwickshire stint. Maddie joined him in Birmingham.
His schedule now includes the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s, followed by three Tests in the West Indies. A proper honeymoon will have to wait until after these commitments and potentially a return to the UK before an Ashes summer back in Australia.
This packed schedule reflects Webster’s rapid career progression, culminating in a Test debut at 31.
From playing club cricket in Cheshire and Birmingham to participating in T20 leagues in Canada and the Cayman Islands, Webster initially envisioned a more modest career.
A talented Australian Rules Football player in his youth, Webster considered the AFL draft before accepting a professional cricket contract with Tasmania at 18. His Test debut came nearly 11 years after his first-class debut.
“There was a period where I felt stagnant,” he told BBC Sport.
“I accepted that achieving my goal of a baggy green might not happen. If it didn’t, I was content. I was happy to be a successful first-class cricketer, hopefully winning trophies with Tasmania.”
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Webster considered post-cricket options, including a building apprenticeship and university studies (journalism and business), before finding success in mortgage broking. Further studies may be in his future.
His current focus is securing a permanent position in the Australian team at number six, a role that emerged from his development as a handy seamer, leveraging his 6ft 6in frame.
Previously a batsman batting anywhere from one to eight for Tasmania, Webster occasionally bowled part-time off-breaks. Early attempts at pace bowling resulted in back problems affecting his batting.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Tasmania’s need for a seam-bowling all-rounder prompted Webster to seriously pursue pace bowling, guided by coach Adam Griffith.
“It was a lack of technique, feet and arms everywhere,” Webster explained. “Without the right run-up, technique, and conditioning, there’s back soreness. I lacked a proper run-up. Bowling without one is like operating at 50%. Griffo helped me develop a run-up, allowing me to focus on my target.”
Initially, Webster faced skepticism about his new skill.
“Bowling off-spin for a while, then suddenly using a long run-up, it looked like a gimmick,” he said.
“I discussed it with Usman Khawaja. Against Queensland, I bowled seam off a long run, and Uzzy was initially confused. After a couple of balls, he realized it wasn’t a gimmick. I dismissed him caught at gully. Only after 12-18 months did the perception change.”
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Debutant Webster clinches series victory for Australia
Webster’s all-round abilities were flourishing. Success in one area boosted the other.
In the 2023-24 season, his 938 Shield runs were the most by far, along with 30 wickets. Only Sir Garfield Sobers has achieved a similar feat in Shield history.
Despite his success, timing proved challenging. Australia already boasted strong seam-bowling all-rounders in Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh.
A Green injury and Marsh’s dip in form opened the door for Webster’s Test debut against India. His parents’ last-minute trip to Sydney and their search for a house-sitter made headlines., external
In that series, Webster top-scored with 57 in the first innings and hit the winning runs in the second, adding a wicket and two catches. His off-spin was also utilized in subsequent Sri Lanka Tests.
Green’s return, albeit as a specialist batsman, leaves Webster hoping for a place in the Australian XI at Lord’s, the West Indies, and the Ashes.
“Competition brings out the best in me,” he said. “I welcome the challenge. I must continue performing to maintain my spot, but it will only get tougher.”
His marriage to Maddie followed the Sri Lanka tour.
“Maddie’s arrival coincided with my career upswing, so she deserves some credit,” Webster joked.
“She’s my biggest supporter. We’ll have a honeymoon eventually.”
Webster has already achieved a Test debut and marriage. A World Test Championship win and Ashes retention are next on his list.
“That would be the perfect 12 months.”
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