Cooper Connolly exceeds high expectations in rapid rise to Test cricket
1. Connolly had played just four first class games and was wicketless from his 96 deliveries before his Test debut in Galle
From the moment his clutch batting propelled the Perth Scorchers to the BBL title nearly two years ago, Cooper Connolly quickly became a fan favorite. The young left-arm spinning allrounder’s potential sparked plenty of intrigue, but even his most ardent supporters couldn't have predicted how swiftly he would rise to Test cricket.
After just four first-class matches, the 21-year-old Connolly earned his place as Australia's 471st men’s Test cricketer, replacing offspinner Todd Murphy in the XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. He also became Australia's fourth debutant in as many Tests.
With his emotional parents watching from nearby, Connolly received his baggy green cap from fellow Western Australian and former Test batter Simon Katich.
His selection had been anticipated in recent days, given expectations that the pitch would be particularly dry and spin-friendly. However, it raised some eyebrows, as Connolly had yet to claim a first-class wicket from 96 deliveries. All three of his Sheffield Shield matches had been played on the pace-friendly WACA surface, and he bowled just six overs in his last first-class outing against India A in Mackay last November.
Despite his limited red-ball experience, Connolly showed his bowling capabilities in the recent BBL season, where he took six wickets and was named Player of the Tournament after topping the run-scoring charts in the league stage. His standout performance came against Sydney Thunder in spin-friendly conditions at the Showgrounds.
If the Galle surface turns sharply, Connolly could prove a valuable asset, complementing left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who excelled in the series opener.
"From what I've seen in the nets, he bowls some really good balls," stand-in captain Steven Smith said. "He was pretty consistent in Dubai and here in the nets. In these conditions, it's about bowling in the right areas and letting the pitch do the work."
Connolly’s inclusion also reflects Australia’s recent bold selection approach, seen with the selection of 19-year-old Sam Konstas for the Boxing Day Test against India.
With Australia already securing their place in the World Test Championship final, selectors opted for Connolly over veteran Glenn Maxwell for the Sri Lanka tour. Having made his T20I and ODI debuts late last year, Connolly is seen as a player for the future—especially with Australia’s next tour of India just two years away. However, his selection for this Test was based on specific conditions rather than long-term planning.
At this stage of his career, Connolly is undoubtedly a stronger batter, adding significant depth at No. 8. He has already scored three half-centuries in six first-class innings, including a composed 90 off 115 balls on debut at No. 7 in last year's Shield final between WA and Tasmania.
His elegant strokeplay on a challenging WACA pitch drew comparisons to former WA great Shaun Marsh, while his all-round ability and flair have likened him to Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head.
"It's pretty cool, to be honest," Connolly told ESPNcricinfo last December about the comparisons. "You grow up watching them smack it around, and now I'm here. I feel proud of myself… it’s a dream to put on a baggy green."
