Aussie Pacer Bartlett Eyeing Test Debut Amid Injury Woes

Xavier Bartlett's journey through Australian cricket has been anything but ordinary. In the past year, the 26-year-old fast bowler has made a remarkable rise, from his early days with the Gold Coast Dolphins to leading the Brisbane Heat's title charge.

Bartlett's stunning international debut in 2024, where he took 4-17 and later claimed player of the series honors against the West Indies, has cemented his status as one of the country's most promising white-ball bowlers. Now, with injuries and age catching up to Australia's frontline quicks, the Queenslander could soon be called upon to make the step up to Test cricket.

Bartlett, who was handed his first ODI cap by teammate Marnus Labuschagne, says every match in green and gold still feels like a dream. "To run out there at the MCG and make your debut for Australia is something that you will always remember," he said. With 15 matches under his belt and 27 wickets at an impressive average of 14.22, Bartlett's ambitions reach higher. "The baggy green is definitely the pinnacle for me. It's definitely something I'm striving towards," he told Fox Cricket.