Beau Webster returns to champions Hobart Hurricanes on three-year BBL deal

Coming off winning their maiden Big Bash League (BBL) title, the Hobart Hurricanes have made a bold signing by acquiring Australia’s all-rounder Beau Webster on a three-year deal. The 31-year-old Tasmanian native returns to his home team after an eight-year stint with both the Melbourne-based franchises.

Webster previously played for the Hurricanes in the 2016-17 season, featuring in five matches, before moving on to represent the Melbourne Renegades and then the Melbourne Stars. Despite his extended tenure in Victoria, he remained a key part of Tasmania’s domestic setup. Webster expressed his happiness for rejoining Hurricanes and playing in front of a home crowd at the Blundstone Arena.

"I am pumped to return to Hobart next summer for the BBL and get the opportunity to play on a packed Ninja Stadium in front of our fans, my friends, and family. Vaughany [Jeff Vaughan] and Nelly [Nathan Ellis] have got the group playing a really good brand of cricket, and to see them win a championship makes me hungry to bring another one to 'Canes fans next season," Webster said in a statement.

While the all-rounder has performed consistently in first-class cricket, his T20 strike rate has remained below 132 in recent seasons. However, he has scored 1,577 runs in 70 BBL innings and is a reliable bowling option. Interestingly, 17 of his 19 career BBL wickets have come in the past three seasons.

His leadership will also be a vital aspect of his role at the Hurricanes: Salliann Beams

The Hurricanes already consist of all-rounders like Mitchell Owen and Chris Jordan in their lineup. However, general manager Salliann Beams is confident in Webster's ability to make a difference.

"We have seen over the past 18 months just how special of a player Beau is, and to have him rejoin the Hurricanes is something that will make all Tasmanians proud to hear. Beau's skill set in the short form of the game is up there with some of the best in the country, and he can take the game away from the opposition with the bat while also providing another wicket-taking option with the ball."

His leadership will also be a vital aspect of his role at the Hurricanes, and he is great mates with the players we already have on our list, which means he will fit into what we are trying to build seamlessly," Beams said.

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Furthermore, the Hurricanes, are yet to re-sign all-rounder Tim David, a key player of their title-winning campaign. Several teams, including the Melbourne Stars, are eyeing David as a free agent. Meanwhile, the Stars have strengthened their squad by signing fast bowler Liam Hatcher on a two-year deal.