Cricket Australia has overhauled its men’s contract list for the 2026–27 season, rewarding key performers from the Ashes triumph while axing several high-profile names in a move that signals a clear shift towards Test cricket.
The new 21-player list, trimmed from 23, includes maiden contracts for Jake Weatherald, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett, alongside the return of off-spinner Todd Murphy. The changes come as Australia prepares for one of its busiest Test schedules in recent memory, with 20 matches lined up across multiple continents.
Test opener Weatherald’s inclusion is a strong endorsement of the left-hander as a long-term option at the top of the order, following solid Sheffield Shield form. Neser and Doggett were rewarded after playing key roles during the Ashes, with selectors backing their impact in English conditions.
Chair of selectors George Bailey said the decisions reflected both recent performances and the demands of the year ahead.
“The contract list strives to balance reward for performances over time with a lens to the upcoming schedule,” Bailey said.
“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.”
“This is reflected in the contract list through a predominance of Test and multi-format players for this cycle.”
The overhaul comes at a cost, with five players dropped from the list. White-ball star Glenn Maxwell, who retired from ODI cricket last year, has been left out along with Matt Short, Sam Konstas and injured quick Lance Morris. Veteran opener Usman Khawaja also drops off following his retirement.
Perhaps the most surprising omission is fast bowler Jhye Richardson, who returned to the Test side during the summer after a long injury lay-off but has not been retained on a central contract.
Bailey said the selectors would continue to rely on a wider player pool throughout the packed calendar.
“Given the upcoming schedule of series, we know we will continue to need and utilise players outside of those contracted,” he said.
“This year, perhaps more than ever, it is essential we continue working closely with and collaborate with states to ensure players are developing and ready for international cricket when they get opportunities.”
The decision to trim the list has also allowed Cricket Australia to offer improved deals to senior players, including captain Pat Cummins and Ashes standout Travis Head, as the team prepares for a defining period.
Australia’s schedule includes a Top End series against Bangladesh, a return Test tour to South Africa, a home series against New Zealand, a high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign in India, and a historic 150th anniversary Test against England at the MCG before an away Ashes tour.
The emphasis on red-ball cricket has shaped selection decisions, with all-rounder Cameron Green still firmly in the team’s plans despite a modest Ashes return. Coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the 24-year-old remains part of Australia’s long-term structure.
“I think the answer to that’s yes,” McDonald said when asked about Green’s place in the side.
“Usman’s retired and he vacates the No.5 position. You’ve got Beau Webster and Green that potentially can play in the same team.”
Selectors have also reaffirmed their faith in Murphy, whose return to the contract list suggests he remains next in line behind Nathan Lyon, particularly ahead of the challenging tour of India.
While some players can consider themselves unlucky, including Matt Renshaw after strong domestic and white-ball performances, the message from selectors is clear: versatility and Test readiness will define Australia’s plans over the next 12 months.
With a demanding schedule looming, the reshaped contract list signals a squad built for endurance, depth and the challenges of cricket’s longest format.
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