Three Australian Under 19 World Cup players, Sam Konstas, Ryan Hicks, and Charlie Anderson, secure contracts with NSW

Australia Under-19 World Cup winning trio Sam Konstas, Ryan Hicks, and Charlie Anderson have secured their first professional domestic contracts with New South Wales, joining recruits Nic Maddinson and Josh Philippe. The trio’s inclusion comes as Jason Sangha and Baxter Holt drop off the list after heading interstate.

Konstas, 18, made his first-class debut for NSW last November and played four Shield matches in his debut season. Hicks, 19, is a promising wicketkeeper-batter who made a century in an Under-19 Youth Test against England. Anderson, 19, impressed with his bowling at the Under-19 World Cup.

NSW chief of cricket performance Greg Mail expressed his pleasure in adding the young talents to the squad, stating, “Sam and Jack both confirmed their talent and development at the domestic level last season and are deserving of their elevation to full contracts.”

The addition of Philippe and Maddinson brings experience and depth to the squad. Philippe, who crossed from Western Australia, and Maddinson, who returns to NSW after six seasons with Victoria, are expected to bolster the team’s balance.

Meanwhile, Sangha is set to join South Australia, and Holt is heading to Western Australia as the back-up wicketkeeper to Josh Inglis. Former NSW captain Kurtis Patterson remains on the list despite exploring other playing options.

The New South Wales 2024-25 squad now includes a mix of experienced senior players and emerging talents, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.