The Western Australian Cricket Association’s ODC squad is gearing up for their season-opening games in Sydney, with speedsters Lance Morris and Jhye Richardson set to play a key role. The team, which has dominated ODC and Sheffield Shield cricket in recent years, will kick off their 2024-25 campaign against NSW at Cricket Central on Sunday, followed by a match against South Australia on Tuesday.
In addition to Morris and Richardson, the pace attack includes experienced bowlers Jason Behrendorff, Andrew Tye, and Matt Kelly, as well as promising young talent Bryce Jackson and allrounder Keaton Critchell. Both Jackson and Critchell made their ODC debuts last season against Tasmania in Hobart.
Cameron Bancroft, a two-time Laurie Sawle medallist, is returning to the squad after a successful stint in England, while Sam Whiteman has recuperated from a finger injury and is ready for selection. The team also has wicketkeeping options in Bancroft, Whiteman, and former NSW player Baxter Holt.
Hilton Cartwright, who played a crucial role in last year’s ODC Final with an unbeaten 73, is back in the squad alongside captain Ashton Turner and spin-bowling allrounders Ashton Agar and D’Arcy Short. The matches on Sunday and Tuesday will be broadcast live on Kayo and Cricket.com.au, starting at 7:30AM.
The full WA squad for the first two One-Day Cup games includes Ashton Turner (c), Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Jason Behrendorff, Hilton Cartwright, Keaton Critchell, Baxter Holt, Bryce Jackson, Matt Kelly, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Andrew Tye, and Sam Whiteman.
As the team prepares to defend their title and continue their winning streak, fans can expect an exciting display of talent and skill from the star-studded WA squad. Stay tuned for what promises to be an action-packed start to the season for the reigning champions.