As the County Championship draws near, all eyes turn to the international talent set to make an impact in England’s domestic cricket scene. Among them, four Australians—Cameron Bancroft, Beau Webster, Nathan McAndrew, and Chris Tremain—have been recognized for their outstanding performances in the Sheffield Shield, with all of them selected in ESPNcricinfo’s Sheffield Shield Team of the Season. Their match-readiness and form make them exciting prospects for the County Championship, but the real question is: do they make your @thecricketdraft team this year?

Let’s take a closer look at these four Aussie stars and how they might fare in the upcoming County Championship.

Cameron Bancroft

Cameron Bancroft has been a consistent performer for Western Australia, finishing as the highest run-scorer in the last Sheffield Shield season. His ability to grind out long innings and occupy the crease makes him a vital asset in red-ball cricket. Bancroft’s temperament and technique will make him a key player for Somerset this season. If you’re looking for a reliable top-order batter in your @thecricketdraft team, Bancroft should be high on your list.

Pros for your Draft Team:

• High consistency at the crease
• Proven track record in English conditions
• Strong technique against the moving ball

Beau Webster

Beau Webster is an all-rounder who brings versatility to any team. His towering presence as a middle-order batter, combined with his off-spin bowling, makes him a valuable pick for the County Championship. Webster had a standout Sheffield Shield season, offering stability with the bat and valuable overs with the ball. He’ll be looking to carry that form over into his stint in the English county circuit.

Pros for your Draft Team:

• All-rounder, offering points with both bat and ball
• Strong form heading into the County Championship
• Provides balance to any team

Nathan McAndrew

Fast bowler Nathan McAndrew was instrumental for South Australia during the Sheffield Shield season, taking key wickets and consistently troubling batters with his pace and movement. He’ll be looking to replicate that success in the County Championship, where his ability to extract bounce and seam movement will be crucial, especially early in the season when conditions suit swing and seam bowling.

Pros for your Draft Team:

• Wicket-taking ability in seamer-friendly conditions
• Experience in both the Sheffield Shield and English county cricket
• Likely to bowl crucial overs, including at the death

Chris Tremain

Another fast bowler to watch is Chris Tremain, who has been a standout performer in the Sheffield Shield. Tremain’s consistent line and length, combined with his ability to swing the ball both ways, makes him a constant threat. His experience and discipline will be key for any county side he represents, and for your @thecricketdraft team, he could provide consistent wicket-taking opportunities.

Pros for your Draft Team:

• Reliable fast bowler with proven success
• Can bowl long spells and pick up wickets in clumps
• Experience playing in diverse conditions

Do They Make Your @thecricketdraft Team?

All four of these Australians bring something unique to the table, whether it’s Bancroft’s solidity at the top of the order, Webster’s all-round capabilities, or McAndrew and Tremain’s pace and control with the ball. With their strong Sheffield Shield performances behind them, they are match-ready and eager to make their mark in the County Championship.

When constructing your @thecricketdraft team, it’s important to consider the balance of your squad. Bancroft is a great pick if you’re looking for a reliable run-scorer, while Webster offers flexibility with his all-round game. McAndrew and Tremain, on the other hand, are great choices if you’re prioritizing wicket-taking bowlers who can thrive in English conditions.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your strategy for the season, but these Aussies are certainly worth serious consideration for any draft. Their form is undeniable, and with the County Championship on the horizon, they’ll be eager to continue their success from Down Under in England’s summer of cricket.

So, will they make your @thecricketdraft team this year? The clock is ticking!