Last Updated on 2 days ago by Charbel Coorey
Fast bowler Billy Stanlake is a chance of making a Test debut in the coming months. The 31-year-old returned to Australian colours in the ODI series against Pakistan earlier this year – his first international match in over six years.
According to CODE Sports, selectors are seriously considering Stanlake as an option to feature during Australia’s run of 20 Test matches in the next 12 months. He has been hampered by injuries over the years, but the team management is hopeful those days are behind him.
Billy Stanlake to make Test debut in the coming months? Selectors reportedly considering fast bowler in their plans
Stanlake has played eight ODIs and 19 T20Is for Australia. The shortest format is where he’s produced his best performances, taking 27 wickets at an average of 20.14 and economy of 7.77, compared to seven wickets at 51.57 in the 50-over game.
Also, Stanlake has managed to play just 13 First Class matches since his debut way back in 2015, two of which came earlier in 2026. Playing for Tasmania, he took 4/35 and 1/56 against Western Australia, followed by 0/38 and 2/31 against Queensland.
Overall, the fast bowler has taken 40 First Class wickets at an average of 26.92 and strike rate of 50.4.
Despite his limited appearances in the Sheffield Shield over the past decade, selectors are evaluating the merits of including the 31-year-old given the pace he can generate plus the confidence in his body following injuries.
“It’s understood he [Stanlake] has been identified as a serious Test pace depth option given the heavy workload over the coming year,” the CODE Sports report read.
Australia’s experienced bowlers, who now each boast 300+ Test wickets, were put through the ringer by a disciplined Bangladesh batting lineup in Darwin. How they back up will be interesting to see given all except Pat Cummins (33) are aged 35 and above.
The likes of Allan Border have called for Australia to hand opportunities to younger bowlers in the coming months. However, key prospects including Callum Vidler and Mahli Beardman are recovering from back injuries.
