Spin-seam combo could net all-rounder Beau Webster ticket to Sri Lanka for upcoming two-Test series

Beau Webster hopes his ability to deliver seam and spin helps secure a Test berth in Sri Lanka, where the dual asset could prove a valuable cog in Australia’s attack.

The 31-year-old Tasmanian allrounder hit the winning runs on debut against India at the SCG as Australia clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a 3-1 series triumph.

Selectors will later this week name the touring party for two Tests against Sri Lanka in Galle, beginning January 29.

Skipper Pat Cummins is likely to miss both matches because of the imminent birth of his second child, and spin friendly decks will almost certainly result in a tweaking of the bowling attack.

Webster sent down 17 overs of pace in the fifth Test against India and picked up one wicket to go with his 96 runs across two innings.

He believes his rise to the highest level is because of his development as a seam bowler.

However, he still has off-spin in his kit bag, with his two bowling options once utilised in one over in the Big Bash League.

Webster said his skill set could prove an asset in subcontinental conditions.

“The offies don’t get wheeled out as much as they used to - more seam-friendly conditions in Australia,” he said.

“I’ve tried to work really hard on them (pace deliveries) to become a genuine allrounder.

“But I’ve still bowled off-spin in first-class cricket this season and I bowled it in the (Sheffield) Shield final last year. If the conditions suit it, they are still there.”

Colin Miller once filled a similar role for Australia through 18 Tests in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his combination of seam-up and off-spin.

“I’m really hoping I am in that (Sri Lanka) squad,” Webster said.

“It is (also) a part of my game I’ve worked really hard on, playing spin bowling.

“And there is no bigger challenge than playing in the sub-continent. I’ll adapt my game … if I am on the plane.”

Webster arrived back in Hobart on Monday afternoon to multiple television crews and an impromptu press conference.

His baggy green was tucked away in his backpack and “still wet” from post-Test celebrations featuring Carlton Draught.

Webster said he planned to have a few days’ rest before returning to play in the BBL with the Melbourne Stars.

He was happy his birthplace of Snug, a tiny town about half an hour’s drive south of Hobart, had been put on the map, saying it held “a special place” in his heart.

“All my junior cricket was down there. All the games in the backyard with my old man and brother and cousins,” he said.