Mitchell Marsh Dropped! Pat Cummins Confirms Playing XI For SCG Test; Webster Set For Debut

Australia announce playing XI for 5th Test [Source: @follwe6616161, @the_sports_x/x.com]

Australia are shaking things up ahead of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Out-of-form all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been dropped from the Australia’s playing XI, and Beau Webster is set to don the Baggy Green for the first time.

The Sydney Cricket Ground will witness Webster’s Test debut on Friday, with the Aussies looking to seal the series and clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since 2014-15.

Cummins Backs Webster Over Struggling Marsh

Speaking on the eve of the match, skipper Pat Cummins laid it all on the table. "Mitchy hasn’t quite got the runs or wickets this series," Cummins said. "We felt like it was time for a freshen-up, and Beau’s been great."

Mitchell Marsh, who was expected to deliver with both bat and ball, hasn’t lived up to the hype this series. His struggles has led to Webster’s inclusion, who has been piling on runs and taking wickets in domestic cricket. Since 2022, Webster has averaged over 57 with the bat and picked up 81 wickets at an average of 31.70.

Webster will slot in at number six, giving Australia a handy option in the lower-middle order. The pressure will be on him, but with his domestic form, he looks ready to take on the challenge.

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Starc Fit and Raring to Go

Australia had a minor scare when Mitchell Starc was sent for scans on Wednesday due to a rib niggle. However, Cummins confirmed that the veteran speedster is good to go and will lead the bowling attack alongside him, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon.

"Starcy’s all good," Cummins reassured. "He’s had a bit of a niggle, but he’s ready for this one."

Starc’s inclusion is crucial, as his ability to swing the new ball and reverse the old one could prove decisive on the SCG track.

What’s At Stake For Australia?

Australia enter the fifth Test with a 2-1 lead. A win or a draw will not only secure the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also guarantee Australia a spot in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June, where they’d face South Africa.

For India, this is a do-or-die game to keep the series alive and deny Australia the trophy. With the stakes sky-high, both teams are expected to come out swinging.

Australia’s Playing XI For 5th Test In Sydney

Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

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