Essex sign Beau Webster for Metro Bank One Day Cup

The 29-year-old has been playing for Upminster as their overseas in Hamro Foundation Essex League Division One, where former county staffer Adam Wheater is captain, and has scored 567 runs at an average of 47.25, with a best of 172 against Belhus.

Webster has also made an impact with the ball, taking 18 wickets at 29.94 and returning best figures of 4-26 against Shenfield, a match in which he also hit another century with 145 from 130 balls.

Hailing from Hobart in Tasmania, the six foot six inch all-rounder represented Melbourne Stars in the last edition of the KFC Big Bash League, hitting 274 runs to finish fourth in the team’s scoring charts, as well as picking up seven wickets.

It was Webster’s fielding ability that saw him gain particular recognition during the most recent Australian summer, though, building a highlight reel of spectacular catches and executing two direct run-outs.

“It’s fantastic to sign for Essex and to get a chance in county cricket,” he said.

“I’ve played with a lot of English guys who have talked about how good it is, so it’ll be great to experience it for myself.

“Everyone at Upminster has been so friendly and welcoming, and I’ve really enjoyed being here this year, so to stay in the area and test myself at the next level will be brilliant.”

Essex head coach Anthony McGrath added: “When we became aware that a player of Beau’s calibre might be available for the One Day Cup this year, we wanted to move to bring him on board.

“He is a tall, powerful player who can impact a match with bat and ball, and having spoken to him already, I know just how keen he is to get going and help win games of cricket for Essex.”