As the current generations of Australian Test cricketers begin to show signs of wear, the conversation around a succession plan has shifted from speculative to urgent.
With injuries mounting and age creeping in, the national team is entering a new chapter - one defined by transition, opportunity and the emergence of fresh talent.
Fox Cricket expert Kerry O'Keeffe summed it up bluntly:
"Transition is coming," he told Sporting News at Kayo Sports’ Summer of Cricket Launch.
"We’ve got this quartet who have been up for a long time and they’ve served Australia well, but they’re ageing and they’re starting to get injuries.
"Andrew McDonald has flagged it; you know, we're going into a transitional phase."
So who's next?
Among the rising crop, three names are beginning to echo around the traps of Australian cricket: Mahli Beardman, Will Salzmann, and Hugh Weibgen.
Each brings a distinct skillset, temperament, and promise - ready to shape the future of Australian cricket.
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Mahli Beardman, Western Australia
At just 20 years old, Mahli Beardman is already being touted as a potential Test match seamer.
The Western Australian fast bowler has impressed in limited appearances - but it's his trajectory that has insiders buzzing.
"When you look at the backup fast-bowlers: Michale Neser, Brendan Doggett, Sean Abbott, they’ve been around a while, they’re all over 30-years-of-age," said O'Keeffe.
"I would love a wild card, I would love Mahli Beardman, a 20-year-old from Perth, who I think has the trajectory to be an outstanding Test bowler.
"If I was a selector, I’d pick Mahli Beardman in the Test squad. I think he’s shown in limited appearances that he has the goods.
“Dennis Lilly’s been working with him. I spoke to Dennis and he rates him highly. We could have one."
Beardman's raw pace and ability to swing the ball have drawn comparisons to some of the nation's greats.
He could be a player that benefits from being taught the ropes by the current trio of quicks in the Test setup.
Will Salzmann, New South Wales
New South Wales' Will Salzmann has made headlines for his impressive first-class debut on a tricky WA deck.
His performance caught the eye of Australia's greatest off-spinner of all time, Nathan Lyon, who was the captain of that side.
"I am very impressed by Will, I thought he was the best batter in the game," said Lyon.
"For a young guy to make his debut and holding himself in those tough conditions was really good."
Salzmann's maturity at the crease, coupled with his all-round capabilities, make him a compelling option for Australia's middle order.
He's shown the temperament required for the long format and could be a stabilising force in the years ahead.
Hugh Weibgen, Queensland
Queensland's Hugh Weibgen is still finding his feet in the senior grades, but his potential is undeniable.
David Warner, who shared a stint with him at the Sydney Thunder, sees a future star in the making.
"I had a short burst with him last year at the Thunder, Hugh Weibgen, I think he’s going to be a good prospect for the future," said Warner.
"[He’s not ready] yet, but I think he’s one name that you could see at the top of the order potentially, even though he’s been batting in the middle order."
Weibgen's strokeplay and right-arm off break suggest that he could evolve into a Test mainstay.
With the right guidance, he may be the long-term answer to Australia's opening conundrum.