Teague Wyllie also dropped as Western Australia reshuffle squad; Kieran Elliott joins from Tasmania

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Western Australia have made significant changes to their squad for the 2026-27 domestic season, with fast bowler Bryce Jackson surprisingly losing his state contract despite being the team’s leading wicket-taker in the One-Day Cup. The decision comes as part of a broader squad overhaul following a disappointing Sheffield Shield campaign.

Jackson, who represented Australia A less than a year ago, impressed in the One-Day Cup by picking up 15 wickets at an average of 22.13. His overall List A record stands at 34 wickets at 20.79 from just 14 matches. However, the 26-year-old was unable to secure a place in Western Australia’s Sheffield Shield side, which appears to have counted against him in the contract decisions.

Promising young batter Teague Wyllie has also been released. Once regarded as a future Australia prospect after becoming WA’s youngest Shield centurion in 2022, Wyllie struggled for opportunities last season, featuring in only two Shield matches. His notable performance included a score of 71 for a Cricket Australia XI against England Lions, but it wasn’t enough to retain his contract.

Alongside Jackson and Wyllie, Baxter Holt and Keaton Critchell have also not been offered new deals. Meanwhile, Cameron Gannon, who enjoyed an outstanding season with 42 wickets at 24.38 and was named WA’s player of the season, has returned to Queensland due to family reasons.

Western Australia’s struggles last season were evident as they finished with the wooden spoon in the Sheffield Shield, marking a disappointing end to Adam Voges’ tenure as head coach. The squad also faced a contract squeeze with the return of pace bowlers Jhye Richardson and Lance Morris after losing their Cricket Australia deals.

In terms of new additions, WA have signed fast bowler Kieran Elliott from Tasmania. Elliott featured in four Shield matches last season, claiming 10 wickets, and had an even stronger previous season with 29 wickets at an average of 24.86. His inclusion is expected to strengthen WA’s pace attack.

The team has also rewarded emerging talent, with allrounder Will Malajczuk earning his first full contract. Opening batter Tom Murray has also secured a deal after an impressive run in Premier Cricket, where he scored four centuries, along with consistent performances for the WA second XI.

WA general manager Kade Harvey emphasized the need for change, stating that the team is looking to bring in fresh faces after a season that fell short of expectations. He highlighted Elliott’s potential impact with the ball and praised Malajczuk’s all-round abilities, while also acknowledging Murray’s strong domestic performances.

In coaching changes, former Australia cricketer Beau Casson has taken over as WA head coach, replacing Adam Voges. Voges, however, will continue his role with the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League.

With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, Western Australia will be aiming for a stronger showing in the upcoming domestic season as they rebuild their squad and address the shortcomings of the previous campaign.