Cricket Australia has unveiled its central contracts for the 2025-26 season, featuring a 23-player roster that reflects both continuity and fresh talent. This announcement comes ahead of two major cricketing events: the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Ashes series against England. The inclusion of promising young players alongside seasoned veterans demonstrates Australia‘s strategic approach to maintaining dominance in international cricket.
Sam Konstas: A rising star
Among the new additions is 19-year-old Sam Konstas, an explosive opening batter who earned his maiden central contract. Konstas made headlines during his debut in the Melbourne Boxing Day Test against India, where he scored an impressive 60 runs off just 65 balls, showcasing his aggressive style with six boundaries and two sixes. His inclusion signals Australia’s commitment to nurturing young talent as they prepare for challenging fixtures.
George Bailey, Australia’s chair of selectors, in the media release expressed confidence in Konstas’ potential, “In Sam, we see promising upside in a young player who will continue to develop at First-Class level and in the international environment.” Konstas is expected to play a pivotal role in Australia’s Test lineup this year.
Matthew Kuhnemann: Spin wizard
Another notable newcomer is Matthew Kuhnemann, a left-arm orthodox spinner who impressed during Australia’s 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka earlier this year. Kuhnemann claimed 16 wickets and was named Player of the Series for his remarkable performances. Despite facing scrutiny over his bowling action, he was cleared after testing at Brisbane’s National Cricket Centre.
Bailey praised Kuhnemann’s impact: “Matt was outstanding in Sri Lanka, and we believe he can play a key role over the next 18 months.” His ability to exploit subcontinental conditions makes him a valuable asset as Australia gear up for crucial matches.
Beau Webster: Versatile all-rounder
Beau Webster retains his place on the contracted list after being upgraded last season. The all-rounder made his Test debut during the fifth India Test in Sydney and impressed with both bat and ball. Webster’s versatility—combining right-handed batting with medium pace and off-spin bowling—adds depth to Australia’s squad.
Bailey highlighted Webster’s contributions: “In Beau’s case, he proved more than comfortable at Test level with bat and ball, adding an additional dimension in the field and to the balance of the side.”
Notable omissions in the contract list
While Konstas, Kuhnemann, and Webster earned contracts, several players missed out. Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Todd Murphy, Cooper Connolly, and Jake Fraser-McGurk were excluded from this year’s list. Murphy’s omission is particularly surprising given his role as a third spinner in Sri Lanka; however, Australia’s reduced subcontinental tours in 2025-26 likely influenced this decision. Similarly, Connolly’s absence raises questions as he had been part of recent Test and ODI squads.
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Jake Fraser-McGurk’s surprising absence from the list
Unfortunately, McGurk’s omission from Cricket Australia’s central contracts for the 2025-26 season has raised eyebrows as well among cricket enthusiasts. Known for his dynamic fielding and promising batting performances at the domestic level, McGurk was expected to secure a contract after consistent contributions in the shorter formats. However, his exclusion suggests that selectors may be prioritizing other players for upcoming international fixtures, leaving McGurk with the task of proving himself further in domestic competitions to regain consideration for future contracts.
Full list of contracted players
The complete roster for Cricket Australia’s men’s central contracts for 2025-26 includes:
Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa
