Cricket Australia has announced the men’s central contract list for the 2026–27 season, revealing a reshaped squad. After making their Test debuts during last summer’s Ashes series, Brendan Doggett and Jake Weatherald have been rewarded with their first full national contracts. Both players impressed selectors with their performances under pressure against England. 

There is also a recall for seasoned campaigners Michael Neser and Todd Murphy, both of whom rejoin the contract list after periods on the fringes. The latest inclusions highlight Australia’s focus on maintaining squad depth ahead of a demanding Test calendar. The biggest talking point, however, is the absence of fast bowler Jhye Richardson. 

Despite featuring in last season’s Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, he has been left out of the 21-player list. Lance Morris, Sam Konstas, and white-ball specialist Glenn Maxwell have also been omitted. Victorian batter Matt Short joins that list of notable exclusions.

"The contract list strives to balance reward for performances over time with a lens to the upcoming schedule. The next 12 months encompasses a busy Test schedule across a range of conditions and challenges - South Africa, India and England as well as the Top End and home Tests across the summer," selection chair George Bailey said.

"This is reflected in the contract list through a predominance of Test and multi-format players for this cycle. Given the upcoming schedule of series we know we will continue to need and utilise players outside of those contracted. This year, perhaps more than ever, it is essential we continue working closely with and collaborating with states to ensure players are developing and ready for International cricket when they get opportunities," selector George Bailey said.

Cricket Australia men's contracts for 2026-27: Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa