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'Try and be as much of a sponge as possible' - Mahli Beardman credits Starc, Cummins for growth

Mahli Beardman has made steady progress in his comeback from a season-ending lumbar injury that ended his brief T20 international stint against Pakistan in January. The 22-year-old fast bowler, who hails from Western Australia’s storied pace-bowling tradition, returned to action in a three-match series with India A, where he claimed four wickets for 23 runs in Australia A’s 50-over victory in Puducherry.

His return to form included three wickets in his first 12 balls, showcasing his sharpness despite a layoff that saw his ball speed dip below 140 km/h before recovering in net sessions. Beardman has credited Australia’s senior pace bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, for their technical guidance and strategic insights during his rehabilitation, emphasizing their ability to simplify complex aspects of the game.

His Western Australian upbringing, shaped by legends like Dennis Lillee and Mitchell Johnson, has further reinforced his development approach, with Beardman openly absorbing lessons from his surroundings to refine his craft. The series provided critical game time as he rebuilds toward full fitness and potential international selection, with Australia A winning the encounter by 125 runs after Steve McSweeney’s unbeaten 123 set the tone in the chase.

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