In a strategic move ahead of the final Ashes Test, Cricket Australia has released reserve allrounder Beau Webster and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis to feature in the Big Bash League. Both players will rejoin the national squad in Sydney following their franchise commitments, with Webster positioned as a potential replacement for the struggling Cameron Green.
Big Bash Stints Before Sydney Showdown
Beau Webster, who has been the squad's reserve allrounder throughout the series, will be available to play for the Hobart Hurricanes in their BBL clash against the Melbourne Renegades on Monday. Meanwhile, Josh Inglis, who was dropped after the Adelaide Test, is expected to return for the Perth Scorchers when they face the Sydney Thunder at ENGIE Stadium on Tuesday night.
The clear plan is for both players to regain match fitness and form in the T20 competition before linking up with the Test team. They are scheduled to re-assemble with the Australian squad in Sydney to prepare for the New Year's Test at the SCG, which begins on January 4.
Pressure Mounts on Cameron Green
This temporary release puts a significant spotlight on the under-performing Cameron Green, whose position in the side is now under serious threat. The 26-year-old allrounder has endured a torrid series with the bat, averaging a meagre 18.66 across the first four Tests.
His troubles were compounded during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, where he was run out on day one and then threw his wicket away in the second innings. Attempting to guide a Ben Stokes delivery to the off-side, Green was caught at second slip, further weakening his hold on the number six spot.
Webster's Path Back to the XI
Webster, who played seven Tests earlier this year but was left out for the Ashes opener in Perth, now appears a genuine chance for a recall. His potential reinstatement is directly linked to Green's repeated failures. The move to play in the BBL is designed to give Webster crucial time in the middle, ensuring he is ready should the selectors make a change for the series finale.
For Inglis, the path back into the Test XI seems less immediate. In his three innings during the Brisbane and Adelaide Tests, his top score was 32. His release to the Scorchers is viewed more as an opportunity for valuable playing time rather than an imminent recall, with Alex Carey firmly entrenched as the first-choice gloveman.
The coming days in the Big Bash League will be closely watched by national selectors, as they finalise their team for the final chapter of the Ashes summer at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
