Webster Declares Confidence in Test Cricket as Australia Prepares for Bangladesh

In the lead-up to a significant 12 months of cricket, Tasmania’s Mac Webster, 32, expressed his growing confidence in his abilities at the Test level. Despite limited opportunities and initial self-doubt, Webster, who has only featured in eight Tests, stated, “I suppose the biggest thing I’ve learned is that I’m good enough at this level.” Speaking to reporters in Darwin on Tuesday, he reflected on the uncertainty he felt prior to his first Test, noting, “You never really know…at the end of the day, you probably don’t know until you get out there and face the bowlers from other countries.”

In contrast, Cameron Green, 27, enters this phase of his career with 37 Tests under his belt, including two centuries and a five-wicket haul. While Green boasts a superior Sheffield Shield batting record, Webster’s recent performances for Tasmania have been notable, suggesting a marked improvement from the early years of his career.

Green was seen walking laps with coach Andrew McDonald and captain Pat Cummins on Tuesday, although it remains unclear where he will bat for the upcoming match against Bangladesh, having occupied multiple positions in past innings. Sources indicated that there are unlikely to be any surprises in the selection ahead of Thursday’s Test.

Webster believes both players can coexist in the same team, stating, “Absolutely, I don’t see why not…it’s surely more of a benefit to have more options in that top seven.” He emphasized that their collaboration could provide additional tactical flexibility for the captain.

Looking beyond Test cricket, Webster is eager for the chance to represent Australia in One Day Internationals (ODIs), despite not yet receiving a selection. His List A career has been described as modest, with a batting strike rate of 80.03 raising questions about his fit for a team needing to replace Glenn Maxwell’s dynamic presence. Nevertheless, Webster’s recent form has improved substantially; last summer, he averaged 51.66 with the bat, including a century and two fifties in six innings.

Webster revealed he has consulted with selectors, expressing his desire to wear the national colors if the opportunity arises. “There’s been a few conversations, nothing obviously in concrete,” he said, adding, “If you’re doing well at Test level, that always probably opens the door for some white-ball cricket.” He remains committed to contributing to the Test team as well.

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