Emerging Australian bowler Mahli Beardman is maintaining a cautious approach while keeping a close eye on his Test aspirations, approaching his return to cricket on a match-by-match basis.
With discussions growing about the 21-year-old as a potential successor to Australia’s ageing Test bowlers, Beardman is still uncertain when he will make his first-class debut. Nonetheless, his impressive skills and pace will be on display this Saturday when Western Australia take on England, marking the start of England’s white-ball tour at the WACA.
This upcoming one-day match serves as a potential opportunity for Beardman, who is eager to debut in Australia’s ODI team during the series opener against England at Optus Stadium on 13th November. “The selection is well above my head,” Beardman mentioned to reporters on Thursday. “But if that opportunity arrives, I’ll try and grab it with both hands. I feel like I’m ready to go out and play some good cricket again.”
Beardman, undoubtedly an emerging talent, has caught the attention of the national selectors, particularly after his remarkable performance against Steven Smith during last season’s BBL finals, highlighting an exciting clash of generations.
Having been part of Australia’s squads for the past two years, Beardman’s sole international appearance was in a T20I against Pakistan. His notable performance included the quick dismissals of Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi in successive deliveries, concluding with figures of 2 for 33 from four overs. Unfortunately, a recurrent stress fracture in his lower back shortly after that match curtailed his season. “The timing of it was pretty rough,” he admitted. “I was feeling quite nice post-Big Bash. It’s just one of those things about understanding my body as I’m growing.”
The injury not only halted Beardman’s international exposure but also delayed his debut in the Sheffield Shield. Despite rising expectations, Beardman plans to transition gradually into red-ball cricket to allow his body time to mature. “It’s tough not to get caught up in the rumours,” he shared. “Whether for WA or Australia, it’s about getting through each game and building momentum.”
Beardman, having delivered a strong performance against India A recently, has displayed his impressive pace and array of skills, including his proficiency at speeds in the mid-140s kph and his challenging bouncers. “I think the goal is as high as I can go,” Beardman stated about his bowling pace. “There’s not really a number, but I know I’ve got a way to go.”
Alongside his attacking game, Beardman is enhancing his defensive prowess to become a more rounded fast bowler. “There will be times when you’re ahead and times when you’re behind,” he noted. “Especially in T20 and white-ball cricket, you need to be ready for that.”
Guided by mentor Dennis Lillee, Beardman is set to make an impression early in the season against England at the refurbished WACA, promising an animated crowd of 4,500. Reflecting on the opportunity, Beardman said, “It’s an awesome hit out and a great chance to really get some insight into their top order and how they play.”
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