Xavier Bartlett’s rise through Australian cricket has been anything but ordinary. From his early days at the Gold Coast Dolphins to leading the Brisbane Heat’s title charge, the 26-year-old fast bowler is now eyeing a more permanent place in the national setup as Australia prepare for a busy summer against India.
Since his stunning international debut in 2024, where he took 4-17 and later claimed player of the series honours against the West Indies, Bartlett has become one of the country’s most promising white-ball bowlers.
Now, with injuries and age catching up to Australia’s frontline quicks, the Queenslander could soon be called upon to make the step up in Test cricket.
‘Playing for Australia is the pinnacle’
Bartlett, who teammate Marnus Labuschagne handed his first ODI cap, says every match in green and gold still feels like a dream. “To run out there at the MCG and make your debut for Australia is something that you will always remember,” he said. “It was a childhood dream to pull on the Australian colours, go out there and do what you love.”
The right-armer, known for his sharp control and late swing, has already represented Australia in 15 matches, taking 27 wickets at an impressive average of 14.22. But his ambitions reach higher. “For me, the biggest thing is trying to play as much cricket for Australia as I can, and that’s at the forefront of my mind,” Bartlett told Fox Cricket. “The baggy green is definitely the pinnacle for me. It’s definitely something I’m striving towards.”
Having impressed across domestic and franchise cricket, including stints in the IPL and Major League Cricket, Bartlett remains grounded, crediting his Queensland roots and the influence of legends like Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.
“Growing up watching them, you always aspire to be them and put on the baggy green,” he said. “I’m really excited to work with them, hopefully for a little longer.”