Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has lauded all-rounder Beau Webster for his standout performance in the first innings of the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s, calling his gritty 72-run knock “game-changing” and a testament to his readiness for the big stage.
Webster, who debuted in a high-pressure Border-Gavaskar Trophy decider in Sydney earlier this year, once again rose to the occasion. With wickets tumbling around him, the 30-year-old showcased poise and intent, crafting a crucial 72 off 92 balls, the top score in Australia’s total of 212 against a formidable Proteas bowling attack.
“You take those 70-odd runs out, that scorecard looks a whole lot different,” said Ponting, speaking to ICC Digital. “It says a lot about how comfortable he is in his own game and the confidence he has in holding a place in the Australian middle order.”
Ponting particularly admired Webster’s natural flair under pressure:
“Australia were under pressure with wickets falling, but he stayed true to his style—aggressive, composed, and determined to shift the momentum back on South Africa. That’s what impressed me the most.”
Smith Holds Firm, Rabada Runs Riot
Veteran batter Steve Smith also played a resilient hand with 66 runs in a patient innings lasting nearly three hours. Alex Carey was the only other batter to cross 20, managing 23, as Kagiso Rabada spearheaded South Africa’s bowling with an incisive 5/51, dismantling the tail to wrap up the innings. Despite the modest total, Ponting emphasized that the conditions—typical early June English swing and seam—offered plenty to bowlers, but Webster and Smith proved that application could still yield results.
“The Dukes ball was moving, as expected at this time of year, but once a batter gets set—as Beau and Smith did—it shows that even in difficult conditions, you can build a score,” Ponting said.
Australian Pacers Hit Back
Australia’s pace trio ensured the fightback was swift. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins each struck late in the day, reducing South Africa to a precarious 43/4 at stumps.With the match finely poised, Webster’s innings may prove to be more than just a personal milestone—it could well be the turning point that keeps Australia in the hunt for back-to-back WTC titles.
