Cricket Australia has announced the exclusion of veteran opener David Warner, along with all-rounders Ashton Agar and Marcus Stoinis, from its list of centrally-contracted players for the 2024-25 season. This decision, revealed on March 28, comes amidst preparations for a packed cricket season, including the upcoming T20 World Cup and a home Test series against India.
The omission of David Warner, who recently retired from ODI and Test cricket, was expected as he plans to bid farewell to the sport after the T20 World Cup. Warner, currently representing Delhi Capitals in the IPL, remains active in the shorter format of the game. Alongside Warner, Ashton Agar and Marcus Stoinis also faced exclusion from the contracted players’ list, raising eyebrows in the cricketing fraternity.
Despite missing Australia’s recent tour of New Zealand due to a back injury, Marcus Stoinis is still in contention for the T20 World Cup. However, the 34-year-old’s absence from the list signals a significant development in Cricket Australia’s selection process. Additionally, Victoria opener Marcus Harris and pacer Michael Neser were among the notable names missing out on contracts offered to 23 players.
In a move to inject fresh talent into the squad, Cricket Australia has awarded central contracts to pacers Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis for the first time. The duo, along with newcomers Matt Short and Aaron Hardie, are set to bring renewed energy and vigor to the Australian cricket team. As the cricketing world gears up for a thrilling season ahead, these contract announcements mark a pivotal moment in shaping Australia’s cricketing landscape for the 2024-25 season.
Cricket Australia Drops David Warner, Ashton Agar, and Marcus Stoinis from Centrally-Contracted Players List
