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Australia’s cricketing scene has a new star in Xavier Bartlett, a right-arm medium-fast bowler who has captured the attention of fans and experts alike. He was sensational in the first T2oI of the three-match series against Pakistan as he took 3 wickets in just 2 overs and gave just 13 runs at the Gabba in Brisbane.
At just 25 years old, Bartlett has emerged as a potent threat for batters worldwide with his pace and skill. Today, let’s delve into the ten intriguing facts about the rising Australian sensation.
Here are the lesser-known facts about Xavier Bartlett
1. Birth and Early Life
Bartlett entered the world on December 17, 1998, in Adelaide, South Australia.
2. A Family Connection to Australian Rules Football
His early years in Adelaide were steeped in athletic pursuits, influenced heavily by his father, Kym Bartlett, who played Australian Rules Football in the South Australian state league. This sporting lineage instilled a strong competitive spirit in Xavier.
3. A Natural Athlete with Diverse Talents
Bartlett wasn’t just a cricket prodigy. During his youth, he excelled in swimming, specializing in backstroke, and claimed numerous state-level medals. His early inclination towards multiple sports highlighted his all-around athletic prowess.
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4. A Batting All-Rounder in the Making
Known for his bowling, Bartlett has shown promise with the bat as well. He showcased his potential during a first-class match against New South Wales, where he scored twin half-centuries – his first at that level.
5. Big Bash League Breakthrough
Bartlett made his Twenty20 debut for the Brisbane Heat on December 11, 2020. This milestone marked the beginning of his journey in Australia’s premier domestic cricket competition, the Big Bash League (BBL).
6. Leading Wicket-Taker in BBL 2023/24
The 2023/24 BBL season was a defining chapter in Bartlett’s career. He emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 20 dismissals, including two crucial wickets in Brisbane Heat’s thrilling final victory against the Sydney Sixers. His stellar performance in the league paved the way for his international debut.
7. Securing a Cricket Australia Contract
Following his standout BBL season, Bartlett was rewarded with his first Cricket Australia contract, a testament to his growing prominence in the national setup.
8. Instant Impact
In January 2024, Bartlett earned a maiden call-up to Australia’s One-Day International (ODI) squad as an injury replacement for Jhye Richardson during the West Indies series. His debut was a masterclass, as he claimed four wickets and was named Player of the Match.
9. Player of the Series Heroics
Bartlett’s remarkable debut was followed by another four-wicket haul in his second ODI match against the West Indies. This stellar performance secured him a second consecutive Player of the Match award and the Player of the Series title, cementing his reputation as a rising star.
10. T20I Debut in 2024
Bartlett transitioned seamlessly into T20I cricket, making his debut in February 2024 during the third match of the series against the West Indies at Perth Stadium. Filling in for an injured Josh Hazlewood, Bartlett impressed with two wickets in the game, showcasing his adaptability across formats.
