‘He seemed absolutely prepared’ – Ricky Ponting praises Beau Webster for vital WTC final innings

Ricky Ponting commended Webster for his performance. On Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final at the storied Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on Wednesday, June 11, Beau Webster produced a crucial half-century in challenging conditions against a formidable South African bowling attack.

Webster, who debuted for the Baggy Greens against India in Sydney earlier this year, has already made some significant knocks under duress. On Wednesday, he top-scored for Australia with a resolute performance of 72 runs off 92 balls, providing yet another outstanding description of his attitude.

He appeared jittery at first, but he was fortunate that the Proteas did not pursue a review against him. But after positioning himself at the crease, he produced some wonderful strokes that enabled the reigning champs to surpass the 200-run threshold.

“He simply appeared well prepared. After Australia’s opening innings, Ponting told ICC Digital, “That scorecard looks a whole lot different when you take those 70-odd runs out.”

He managed to go outside and continue playing in his own organic manner: Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting emphasised how Webster looked to exert some pressure on the opposing bowlers and didn’t back down from playing his inherently aggressive style, even when wickets were falling at the other end.

The former captain of Australia stated, “I think that says a lot about how comfortable he is in his own game right now and even the comfort he has of being in the middle order.”

“What I enjoyed about that day was that, even though Australia was having some difficulties and wickets were falling, Webster was able to go out there and play the way he wanted to play, try to be aggressive, and try to put some pressure back on the South African bowlers,” he continued.