Wednesday, January 15, 2025
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‘Valuable opportunity’: NSW veteran Kurtis Patterson, young quick Fergus O’Neill included in Australia A squad

Kurtis Patterson will continue to push his case for a Test recall after being selected in the Australia A squad to face the English Lions later this month.

The experienced top-order batter, who scored a century in his last appearance in the baggy green six years ago against Sri Lanka, has returned to form this season in Sheffield Shield.

Patterson has been in the runs for NSW in the domestic first-class competition and will now get an opportunity in national colours against the touring English side in a four-day clash.

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Kurtis Patterson celebrates a century for NSW.  Getty

The 31-year-old put his name in the mix for a return to international cricket in recent months but at this stage, remains outside the main group.

Also included in the Australia A squad is young Victorian fast bowler Fergus O'Neill, who continues to impress in all three formats and is pushing himself into Test calculations.

O'Neill has taken 94 first-class wickets at an average of under 20 early in his career, while also being a clear standout for a struggling Melbourne Renegades side this summer.

The 23-year-old has also spent time overseas playing for Nottinghamshire in the English County Championships, which could factor into discussions for future Ashes series.

'Valuable opportunity': NSW veteran Kurtis Patterson, young quick Fergus O'Neill included in Australia A squad

Fergus O'Neill in action for Victoria.  Getty

The squad will be captained by all-rounder Jack Edwards, while the likes of Aaron Hardie and Will Sutherland will also get the chance to impress national selectors.

"This match is a valuable opportunity to expose exciting young talent against quality international opposition with a longer lens," Tony Dodemaide said in a statement.

"We expect a highly competitive contest against a Lions team who will be keen to stake their individual claims for selection in next summer's Ashes tour of Australia."

Australia A squad vs English Lions

Jack Edwards (c), Xavier Bartlett, Brendan Doggett, Jordan Buckingham, Jayden Goodwin, Aaron Hardie, Fergus O'Neill, Kurtis Patterson, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Will Sutherland, Tim Ward

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