Murphy, Doggett headline Australia men's contracts for 2026-27

With an eye on winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil, Australia have added off-spinner Todd Murphy and retained Matthew Kuhnemann in the 21-man central contracts list for 2026-27. The selectors have leaned into spin depth with Nathan Lyon, now 38, working his way back from hamstring surgery sustained during the home Ashes last year.

Fast bowler Brendan Doggett received his first full contract while opener Jake Weatherald kept his upgraded deal from last summer. Michael Neser also returns to the list after an impressive showing in the home summer.

The schedule ahead is dense. Australia are set to play 15 Tests across the next year: two at home against Bangladesh, three away in South Africa, four at home against New Zealand and a five-Test tour of India along with a one-off 150th anniversary match at the MCG. A World Test Championship final could follow, before a five-Test away Ashes tour in mid-2027.

"The contract list strives to balance reward for performances over time with a lens to the upcoming schedule," said George Bailey, Chair of men's national selectors. "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."

Players outside the list can still earn upgrades by featuring regularly in internationals over the next 12 months. As per Cricket Australia's agreement with the Australian Cricketers' Association, the initial list must include between 20 and 24 players

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