Beau Webster's Part-Time Off-Spin Shines in Ashes Test
Webster's Impactful Bowling Performance
Sydney [Australia], January 7: Australian all-rounder Beau Webster discussed his effective use of "part-time" off-spin, which played a crucial role in shifting the momentum during the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). On Day 4, he took three wickets in England's second innings.
Webster, who also bowls right-arm medium pace, made significant contributions by dismissing key players including Harry Brook, Will Jacks, and Ben Stokes, thwarting England's ambitions of establishing a commanding lead.
As England appeared to be on track for a substantial third-innings score at 219/3, Webster struck first by removing Harry Brook, who had scored 42 runs off 48 balls, breaking the 102-run partnership with Jacob Bethell. He followed this by taking out Will Jacks in the same over, bringing England down to 219/5.
He continued his impressive spell by dismissing England's captain Ben Stokes, who was hindered by a groin injury.
In a post-match press conference, Webster attributed his off-spin bowling to muscle memory developed from his earlier playing days. He noted that it serves as a part-time option he can utilize when necessary, especially when the pitch offers assistance.
"It's largely muscle memory. I bowled a lot of it in my teens and early twenties before transitioning. It's there when needed, and I often joke with Travis Head that the better the batsmen are, the less I bowl them. Luckily, I found some rough outside off," Webster explained.
He revealed that the strategy was discussed with Australia’s coach Andrew McDonald on Day 1 of the Test. Webster bowled seam in the first innings, keeping his off-spin in reserve for later, anticipating that footmarks would develop on the pitch. This plan unfolded perfectly, with Webster and Travis Head sharing the spin duties, as Australia opted not to field a specialist spinner in Sydney.
"I recall Ronnie (Andrew McDonald) advising that we should focus on seam in the first innings, anticipating some seam movement. If footmarks appeared from Starcy, I should be ready to bowl off-spin, which is precisely how it played out with me and Trav (Travis Head) sharing the workload. I can't recall the exact number of overs, but it was definitely discussed on day one," Webster added.