Old blokes might win stuff, but Australia sideline youth at their peril

July 25, 2026 — 7:00am

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“Old blokes win stuff” was a phrase beloved of all-rounder and now coach Dan Christian, as he spent his final few playing years hoovering up Twenty20 franchise trophies around the world.

It’s also a neat summary of the philosophy followed by the national selectors, as they do all they can to keep the ageing core of the Australian Test team together for a glut of major assignments over the next 12 months.

When selection chair George Bailey, coach Andrew McDonald and selector Tony Dodemaide got together in 2022, they agreed on an approach that marked a significant departure from previous panels.

Rather than playing their best team whenever possible, the focus was narrowed to major events. Test series and World Cups were king, while bilateral white-ball series fell a long way down the order of preference. They have effectively become proving grounds for young players, as well as contractual obligations for Cricket Australia.

The Test match focus on the now was enhanced by the aim of securing a spot in the world championship final every two years, adding context to lower-profile series dotted in between bouts against England and India. By rationing resources, they hoped to extend the careers of great players.

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© Brisbane Times