Cricket Australia has announced its men’s central contract list for the 2026-27 season, with spinner Todd Murphy and pace bowler Brendan Doggett among the standout names making headlines. The streamlined 21-player list reflects a clear emphasis on red-ball cricket ahead of an unusually demanding Test schedule, with 15 Tests lined up over the next 12 months.
Doggett and opener Jake Weatherald have been rewarded with maiden central contracts following their Ashes debuts, while Murphy makes a timely return to the fold. However, the announcement also comes as a significant surprise, with Glenn Maxwell, Sam Konstas, and Jhye Richardson among the notable players left out of Cricket Australia’s plans.
Doggett and Weatherald Earn Maiden Central Contracts After Ashes Debuts
Weatherald and Doggett earned their first central contracts after making strong impressions during the Ashes, where both players showed they could handle the demands of Test cricket.
Weatherald’s selection is especially noteworthy, indicating strong support from selectors for him to remain Australia’s Test opener. The 31-year-old is gearing up for a notable homecoming in Darwin during the upcoming series against Bangladesh.
Murphy and Neser Reclaim Spots as Australia Bolsters Spin Stocks
Todd Murphy’s return to the contract list has been driven by the looming Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour, after he was omitted this time last year. With Nathan Lyon recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the Ashes, selectors have strengthened their spin stocks, retaining Matt Kuhnemann alongside Murphy.
Experienced pacer Michael Neser has also held onto his contract following consistent performances with the ball.
Maxwell, Konstas, and Richardson Axed in Surprise CA Overhaul
Glenn Maxwell’s omission signals a clear shift toward Test-focused players, while Sam Konstas has been dropped following a loss of form. Matthew Renshaw, Jhye Richardson, Lance Morris, and Matt Short are also out, though non-contracted players can still earn upgrades through international appearances during the season.
Packed Test Schedule and Million-Dollar Deals Define 2026-27 Cycle
Australia’s demanding schedule, featuring series against Bangladesh, South Africa, New Zealand, and India, plus a potential World Test Championship final and the 2027 Ashes, shaped every contracting decision, according to selection chair George Bailey.
Financially, the contracts are also landmark, with average earnings now exceeding AUD 1 million annually for the first time under the current pay agreement with the players’ union.
