'Shock as Mitchell Marsh dropped from Test XI by Australia; Pat Cummins reveals replacement for Sydney finale'

Australia has made the decision to drop Mitchell Marsh from the XI for the fifth and final Test match against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Marsh, who is also the T20I captain for Australia, has failed to impress as the lone seam-bowling all-rounder in the team in the absence of injured Cameron Green. With only 73 runs scored over the first four Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and limited contribution with the ball, Australia has decided to make a change in order to strengthen their lineup. Marsh's lackluster performance comes at a crucial time as Australia looks to secure a series victory after bouncing back from a tough defeat in the Perth opener.

Marsh will be replaced by Beau Webster in Australia's XI for the New Year's Test, confirmed captain Pat Cummins.

"Beau's been in the squad for a few tests now, Mitchy hasn't quite got the runs or the wickets he'd have liked so we thought it was time for a freshen up," Cummins told reporters at Sydney Cricket Ground.

"It's a shame for Mitchy because we know how much he brings to the team, but we feel like now is a good week for Beau to get a chance.

"(Marsh) was in the side this summer for being a top-six batter. I think when he's at his best, he gets in the side on his batting alone and his bowling is a bonus."

'Beau Webster a star performer': Pat Cummins

Webster, 31, has not represented his country in any format but has scored 5,297 runs and taken 148 wickets in 93 first-class matches, mainly for his state side, Tasmania.

"He's just been one of those star performers for Tasmania with bat or ball or in the field," said Cummins.

"He always seems to have a big impact. Quite aggressive. Can change the game, like we've seen Mitch Marsh or Travis Head or Alex Carey do in that middle order."

The introduction of Webster was the only change to the side, with Mitchell Starc included despite struggling with a back niggle during the fourth test.

"He just grits his teeth and gets on with it," Cummins said of the left-arm quick.

"He's the one player who just refuses ever to talk about being rested or rotated. He just wants to go out there and play for Australia.

"He went off for a scan yesterday and got the all clear to play in this match. It's a big game in the context of series and World Test Championship, it's a home game. He was never going to miss this one unless he absolutely had to."

A victory in the fifth test would secure Australia a place in this year's World Test Championship final against South Africa.

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