**Who Is Cooper Connolly? Australia’s Young Gun Replacing Matthew Short in the IND vs AUS Champions Trophy Semi-Final**
**A Surprise Call-Up for a High-Stakes Clash**
**Cooper Connolly** has been handed a massive opportunity as he steps in to **open for Australia** in the **IND vs AUS Champions Trophy semi-final**, replacing the **injured Matthew Short**. The **21-year-old all-rounder** has grabbed attention as he aims to make a mark in one of the **biggest matches of his career**.
Born in **Western Australia**, Connolly is a **left-handed batter** and a **right-arm off-break bowler**. His rise through Australia’s domestic circuit and the **Big Bash League (BBL)** has paved the way for his international debut. With Australia banking on his **versatility**, can he deliver under pressure?
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**Cooper Connolly’s Career: From Domestic Star to International Cricket**
Connolly’s journey began with **strong performances in Australia’s domestic scene**, earning him a debut for **Western Australia in 2023**. His T20 debut for the **Perth Scorchers** in **January 2023** showcased his **batting prowess**, where he played **impactful innings** in crucial moments.
His **Big Bash League (BBL) success** led to his inclusion in **Australia’s white-ball squads**. Connolly made his **ODI debut against England in September 2024** and his **Test debut against Sri Lanka in February 2025**.
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## **Cooper Connolly’s Batting Stats**
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|
| ODIs | 3 | 10 | 10.00 | 31.25 |
| BBL | 25 | 577 | 38.46 | 136.72 |
| List A | 9 | 117 | 16.71 | 75.00 |
📌 **Key Takeaways**:
– Connolly has shown **exceptional promise in T20s**, boasting an **average of 38.46** and a **strike rate of 136.72** in the **BBL**.
– In the **50-over format**, he has **yet to make a significant impact**, but his potential makes him a player to watch.
– This **semi-final** marks his **first-ever international match as an opener**, adding another layer of challenge to his young career.
## **Cooper Connolly’s Bowling Stats**
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Economy Rate | Best Figures |
|---|
| BBL | 25 | 12 | 7.27 | 3/25 |
📌 **Key Takeaways**:
– Connolly has been an **effective part-time bowler in T20s**, with **12 wickets at an economy rate of 7.27**.
– His **best bowling figures of 3/25** show his ability to contribute with the ball when needed.
– However, **he has yet to take a wicket in international cricket** (ODIs, Tests, or T20Is), meaning his **impact at the highest level remains unproven**.
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## **Can Connolly Rise to the Occasion?**
While Connolly’s inclusion in the **semi-final against India** is a **bold gamble**, his **all-round potential** and past T20 performances make him an **exciting prospect**. With **Australia facing a spin-heavy Indian attack**, his ability to **attack early and provide a part-time bowling option** could be crucial.
🔥 **Will Connolly make a name for himself in this high-pressure semi-final, or is the move too risky?** Drop your thoughts in the comments!
