Ten to watch: who could push for Australia call-up?
With seven months remaining until Australia resumes Test cricket, thoughts around Usman Khawaja’s potential retirement are prompting discussions on a possible transition. However, a mass departure of players is not anticipated. The number of matches lined up for Australia—up to 21 in 11 months from August—suggests there will likely be chances for fresh talent. Below is a list of individuals who may play a role.Qualifier: if already capped, five Tests or fewer. At the international level, Bartlett has predominantly played white-ball cricket, and he is set to participate in next month’s T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, his impressive red-ball domestic statistics, boasting 106 wickets at an average of 25.88, make him a compelling option as Australia’s bowling line-up prepares for a new phase. Additionally, his proficiency as a lower-order batsman is a significant asset; he scored half-centuries in three consecutive matches earlier this season. The left-handed batsman and left-arm spinner has one Test cap to his name, and it may not be long before he adds to that total. Although his domestic performance remains somewhat limited without a first-class century, selectors are keen on his potential. For now, he is likely to receive opportunities in white-ball formats, but if conditions necessitate a batting allrounder capable of bowling spin—potentially in India early next year—Connolly might just be in the mix. He is also adept at handling fast bowling, which will serve him well.
Kellaway, the Victorian opener, has swiftly climbed the ranks of Australia’s batting prospects following an excellent first half of the domestic season, building on a strong finish last summer. A tall left-handed player, he has ample time to execute his shots and has captured the attention of several key figures. His state coach, Chris Rogers, previously identified him as a natural heir to Khawaja. An outstanding innings against Mitchell Starc on a challenging SCG pitch stands out, and he also made runs for both the Prime Minister’s XI and Australia A against the England Lions. Campbell Kellaway could push for an opening position•Getty Images. This time last year, Konstas had just wrapped up a remarkable start to his Test career against India, yet it didn’t secure him a long-term role at the top of the order. After being overlooked for the Sri Lanka series, he faced challenges in the West Indies and subsequently lost his place for the Ashes. Early this summer, runs in domestic cricket were hard to come by, but a century before the BBL break has put him back on the radar, and a strong finish to the Shield season could see him re-enter the conversation.
McSweeney faced one of the most challenging tasks in cricket: opening the batting against Jasprit Bumrah despite not being a specialist in the role. After three Tests, selectors opted for a change, yet they continue to regard McSweeney highly, both as a batsman and a leader. While one century in five Shield matches hasn’t fully opened the door for him, a strong finish to the season and significant runs for Northamptonshire, where he has signed for the county season, could see him back in contention, especially if a middle-order batting position becomes available. Morris, the Western Australia fast bowler, is currently undergoing a lengthy rehabilitation following back surgery, which has ruled him out for the season. Had he been fit this summer, it’s quite likely he would have made it into the Ashes squad. At 27 years old, he is in that ideal age range that could help connect the current senior quicks with the young talents like Callum Vidler (see below) and Mahli Beardman. When at his peak, he ranks among the fastest bowlers in Australia. Although he may always require careful management, there remains hope for a successful Test career.
O’Neill has done everything possible to advocate for a higher position, and developments during this summer’s Ashes may favor his case. He has confronted views regarding a lack of pace, yet Michael Neser’s role against England might create an opportunity for him, particularly if conditions continue to favor seam bowlers. His best shot may be during the 2027 Ashes, where he could be perfectly suited to the Dukes ball, having gained valuable county experience. Peake is set to captain Australia in the forthcoming Under-19 World Cup, having been the youngest member of the victorious squad two years ago. It may not be too long before he finds himself competing at a higher level. He has already been involved with the Test squad, during last year’s series against Sri Lanka, in a developmental role. His second first-class meet was with Australia A last year, where he scored 92, and his match-winning display in the opening Shield match against South Australia was noted for its poise.
Callum Vidler has been sidelined due to back issues but has already made a mark with his capabilities. When Nathan Lyon’s Ashes series ended due to injury, Todd Murphy was called up, though he could not secure a role in the XI. It is an intriguing time for red-ball spin in Australia, especially with an eye on what comes after Lyon. Rocchiccioli from Western Australia has become proficient in utilizing drift and bounce in home conditions in Perth, making a significant case for himself as the leading domestic performer over the past three seasons with 131 wickets at an average of 29.78. Still young and relatively inexperienced, Queensland fast bowler Vidler has generated substantial excitement about his future. He performed impressively in last season’s Shield final but has yet to play this summer due to a stress fracture in his back—a common risk for many emerging fast bowlers. It’s possible that he could follow a similar trajectory as another fast bowler with a history of back injuries—Pat Cummins—and be fast-tracked through the ranks once he recovers.
Andrew McGlashan is a deputy editor at ESPNcricinfo
Published: 2026-01-09 23:48:00
source: www.espncricinfo.com
