Melbourne, 4 October (HS) : Australian all-rounder Beau Webster will miss the opening Sheffield Shield match for Tasmania against Queensland after suffering an ankle injury. However, Cricket Australia sources suggest the injury is not considered serious.A re-assessment of Webster’s fitness will take place on Thursday, ahead of Tasmania’s Marsh One-Day Cup clash with Queensland.

The Shield’s second round, beginning 15 October, will see Tasmania take on Western Australia—a fixture Webster is targeting for his return.Webster had set a goal this season to play all four of Tasmania’s Shield matches ahead of the Ashes, after making an impressive start to his Test career—racking up four half-centuries in seven matches. Still, discussions about his place in the Test side have intensified ahead of Australia’s series against England, especially with increased competition for all-rounder roles.

Meanwhile, Cameron Green is expected to resume full bowling duties in domestic cricket. Depending on team composition, Green could retain his place in the top order or be moved back down the batting lineup.

During the domestic pre-season, Webster spoke about the dynamic with Green: “I’ve been given opportunities because Greeny was getting back into bowling. I’d love for us both to play together. If you have guys scoring runs in the top six who can also bowl, that’s a massive bonus for the team.”

He added, “Greeny is a fantastic batsman. I want him to excel in the top order, and I can keep contributing at number six. That way, we both add value with the ball and in the field, and can help Australia win more matches.”

Webster began the domestic season on a high note in the Marsh One-Day Cup, taking five wickets across two matches—including a standout performance against Victoria, where he scored 81 runs off 95 balls.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar