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Left-arm orthodox Test spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has opted for a move from Queensland to Tasmania, aiming to secure more opportunities in first-class cricket and position himself for potential selection in the tour of Sri Lanka. Kuhnemann, 27, represented Australia in three Tests during the previous year’s India tour, notably contributing to Australia’s victory in Indore with figures of 5 for 16.
Despite his Test appearances, Kuhnemann found limited opportunities in Sheffield Shield cricket for Queensland, primarily due to the dominance of legspinner Mitchell Swepson as the preferred spin option. Consequently, Kuhnemann’s involvement was confined to the Marsh Cup and second XI matches, with sporadic red-ball appearances for his premier club, Gold Coast.
His move to Tasmania signifies a shift in his career trajectory. He aims to become their primary spinner across both Shield and Marsh Cup competitions, bolstering Tasmania’s bowling lineup following their close pursuit of the Shield title. Kuhnemann remains contracted to the Brisbane Heat in the BBL for the next two seasons.
Meanwhile, former Test opener Joe Burns was omitted from Queensland’s contract list after being excluded from both the Shield and Marsh Cup squads last season. Despite an impressive start to the Shield season, including notable performances against Tasmania and South Australia, Burns was sidelined in favor of emerging talents as Queensland sought to rejuvenate their lineup after a disappointing campaign.
Queensland has opted to elevate opener Angus Lovell to the contract list after his debut Shield season, where he showcased promise across four matches. Additionally, the state has secured the services of four Under-19 World Cup winners for the upcoming season. Hugh Weibgen and Callum Vidler have been awarded full contracts, with Vidler notably making his Shield debut in the previous season’s final round, claiming a five-wicket haul.
Furthermore, Lachlan Aitken and Tom Straker, both part of the successful Under-19 squad, have been granted rookie deals. Straker, in particular, joins from New South Wales following his remarkable performance in the Under-19 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan.
Queensland’s restructuring comes amidst their search for a new coach following the departure of Wade Seccombe last month.
Queensland squad 2024-25: Lachlan Aitken (rookie), Xavier Bartlett (CA contract), Max Bryant, Hugo Burdon, Jack Clayton, Liam Guthrie, Lachlan Hearne, Usman Khawaja (CA), Marnus Labuschagne (CA), Angus Lovell, Ben McDermott, Michael Neser, Jimmy Pierson, Matthew Renshaw, Jem Ryan (rookie), Gurinder Sandhu, Jack Sinfield, Mark Steketee, Tom Straker (rookie), Connor Sully, Mitch Swepson, Bryce Street, Callum Vidler, Hugh Weibgen, Tom Whitney (rookie), Jack Wildermuth
Ins: Angus Lovell, Lachlan Hearne, Callum Vidler, Lachlan Aitken, Jem Ryan, Tom Straker
Outs: Joe Burns, James Bazley, Blake Edwards, Aryan Jain, Matthew Kuhnemann, Will Prestwidge
