Jake Weatherald set for prolonged stint as Australia's Test opener

The 31-year-old made his debut in the home Ashes against England and went on to play all five Test matches, scoring 201 runs at average of 22.33, as the hosts cantered to a 4-1 series victory.

Australia have busy schedule ahead, especially in the longest format, with Test series coming up against Bangladesh (home), South Africa (away), New Zealand (home), India (away), the 150th anniversary Test against England and the start of the 2027 Ashes.

Fast bowler Jhye Richardson was a surprise omission from the contract list while seamer Michael Neser has been rewarded with a deal for his role in the Ashes series and Brendan Doggett is also included.

Alongside Richardson, five other players have lost their contracts: Usman Khawaja (retired), Sam Konstas, Lance Morris, Glenn Maxwell and Matt Short.

"The contract list strives to balance reward for performances over time with a lens to the upcoming schedule," Australia selector George 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. 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 collaborate with states to ensure players are developing and ready for International cricket when they get opportunities."

Australia contract list 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

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