Last Updated on 3 weeks ago by Charbel Coorey
Jake Weatherald is likely to retain his position as Australia Test opener for the two-match series against Bangladesh in August.
Weatherald was selected for the Ashes based on strong form in First Class cricket. The left-hander averaged 50.33 in the 2024/25 Sheffield Shield season.
However, he struggled in the Ashes, scoring 201 runs in 10 innings against an inconsistent England attack. Weatherald crossed 50 just once, with his technique exposed against the incoming delivery.
Jake Weatherald likely to open against Bangladesh in August despite shaky Ashes series
Despite Weatherald’s struggle, it is expected that the selectors will give him first crack at the opener’s role in the first of a potential 21 Tests in 12 months for Australia.
A CODE Sports report revealed Weatherald is included in Australia’s contract list for next season. Matt Renshaw, considered a strong candidate for the role, will reportedly not be offered a central contract. This was confirmed by Cricket Australia on Wednesday 1st April.
Weatherald will play red-ball cricket for Leicestershire for the first few rounds of the 2026 County Championship season. A good run of form in England will further push his case for selection against Bangladesh.
“I’m absolutely buzzing to join Leicestershire for this first block of the County Championship,” Weatherald said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
“It’s my first taste of county cricket, and honestly, I couldn’t be more excited. Everyone I’ve spoken to has talked about how special the county circuit is — the history, the crowds, the grind — and I’m really looking forward to being part of that. I can’t wait to meet the lads, settle in, and hopefully make a real impact for the Foxes.”
As per the CODE Sports report, Weatherald will be one of 21 players to receive a contract.
Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett, Matt Kuhnemann, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Marsh, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett
