Cricket Victoria has today unveiled its 2026/27 Victorian Men's Squad, confirming a 25-player group that reflects stability, depth and the continued evolution of one of the country's most consistent domestic programs.
Following a record-breaking Sheffield Shield campaign, continuity has been a defining feature of this year's squad, with a strong core of experienced leaders recommitting alongside an exciting wave of emerging talent.
Off the back of an outstanding domestic season, Todd Murphy joins Scott Boland as Victoria's two Cricket Australia contracted players.
Peter Handscomb, Sam Harper and Campbell Kellaway have all recommitted, alongside Fergus O'Neill, Sam Elliott and Mitch Perry who will continue to spearhead a deep and versatile bowling unit.
Ashley Chandrasinghe has retained his state contract following a dominant Premier Cricket campaign with Casey South Melbourne, where the 24-year-old amassed 1,345 runs at 58 to earn selection in the Team of the Season.
He is joined by Footscray's Dylan Brasher, who also enjoyed a prolific summer, compiling 1,498 runs at 49.93, while also making his First-Class and List-A debuts.
Another Casey South Melbourne talent has been rewarded, with quick Harry Hoekstra earning a state contract for his outstanding consistency at Premier level, while Australian Under-19 representatives Tom Paddington and Aryan Sharma have been added to the rookie list as the next generation of Victorian talent continues to emerge through the state's pathways.
Three players from last season's squad will not return, including Jai Lemire, who has relocated interstate for greater opportunities. Xavier Crone and Callum Stow have also not been offered contracts but will remain connected to the Victorian environment.
Matthew Short and Glenn Maxwell will continue to represent Victoria when available, with both opting not to take up a state contract, underlining their selfless commitment to the program and allowing opportunities for others.
Cricket Victoria Head of Men's Cricket David Hussey said the squad was well positioned to build on last season's momentum.
"We're really pleased with the stability and growth of this group," Hussey said.
"While we didn't get the ultimate reward last season, it was an impressive summer and one that showed the strength, resilience and character of this playing group.
"There's a strong core of experienced players who continue to set the standard, but what's equally exciting is the young talent coming through our system. Players are earning their opportunities and continuing to push the group forward and represent Victoria with pride."
Victorian Men's Squad 2026/27 (Premier Club)
- Austin Anlezark (Richmond)
- Liam Blackford (Geelong)
- Scott Boland (Frankston Peninsula)*
- Dylan Brasher (Footscray)
- Ashley Chandrasinghe (Casey South Melbourne)
- Harry Dixon (St Kilda)
- Sam Elliott (Fitzroy Doncaster)
- Peter Handscomb (St Kilda)
- Sam Harper (Melbourne)
- Marcus Harris (St Kilda
- Campbell Kellaway (Melbourne)
- Blake Macdonald (St Kilda)
- Cam McClure (Prahran)
- David Moody (Melbourne)
- Todd Murphy (St Kilda)*
- Fergus O'Neill (Melbourne)
- Oliver Peake (Geelong)
- Mitch Perry (Richmond)
- Tyler Pearson (Premier Club TBC)
- Tom Rogers (Ringwood)
- Will Sutherland (Prahran)
- Doug Warren (Melbourne University)
Rookie Contracts
- Harry Hoekstra (Casey South Melbourne)
- Tom Paddington (St Kilda)
- Aryan Sharma (Carlton)
*Denotes Australian Contracted Players
