Cooper Connolly named Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year amid stellar form for Perth Scorchers, Australia

Cooper Connolly has cemented his status as one of Australian cricket’s rising stars, with the WA allrounder snaring the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year prize.

Connolly was recognised for his stunning Big Bash League campaign last summer, at the beginning of the voting period, where he earned Player of the Tournament honours after making huge contributions with both bat and ball.

The 22-year-old also represented Australia across all three formats, including a Test debut against Sri Lanka in Galle last February after just four first-class matches.

Connolly said it was “humbling” to be in the company of past winners of the award, including David Warner, Brett Lee, Shane Watson and current teammate Jhye Richardson.

“The award is named after the Don so it’s special to be a part of that group and to see the previous winners, it’s always exciting to be part of that.,” Connolly said.

“There’s been a lot of cricket played over the last 12 months. I haven’t really had time to sit down and soak it all in. I’m just honoured to win this award, it’s special and it was nice to receive it from Richo.

“I’m enormously grateful for all the support I’ve had from coaches, teammates and support staff at WA Cricket. I’m looking forward to the upcoming BBL finals campaign and am excited at the prospect of being a part of the Scorchers’ sixth BBL title.”

Connolly becomes the fourth West Aussie in the past decade to snare the Young Cricketer Prize, alongside Hilton Cartwright (2017), Richardson (2018) and Lance Morris (2023).

South Australia’s Jake Lehmann was named Domestic Player of the Year after piling on the runs to lead the State to Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup titles.

This year’s Australian Cricket Awards are being handed out sporadically, with the Allan Border Medal and Belinda Clark Award to be handed out virtually after the awards night was scrapped.