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Australia’s spin bowler Adam Zampa is still optimistic about earning the cherished Baggy Green cap, despite having limited opportunities in first-class cricket lately. Known for his significant role in Australia’s limited-overs team, Zampa is confident that his current performance and experience position him as a viable choice for Test matches, especially for tours to subcontinental conditions.
Zampa’s Test ambitions began to take shape last year when he was seen as a promising option for Australia’s Test series in India. Nevertheless, the selectors chose Queensland’s Mitchell Swepson for the tour, which left Zampa disheartened but resolute in his pursuit.
“I think, realistically, (I’m) still a chance to play Test cricket,” he told the Final Word podcast. “If I was playing a lot of Shield cricket right now with the way I’m bowling, the bowler I am, think I’d be fine, I’d be doing really well. The few games I have played in the last couple of years are suggestive of that.”
At 31, leg-spinner Adam Zampa has featured in only two first-class matches since 2019, both with New South Wales, following his return from South Australia in 2020. His heavy focus on white-ball formats has restricted his chances in longer formats, but he remains optimistic that his skills can adapt well to Test cricket, despite a first-class bowling average of 46.98.
Zampa’s Test ambitions might be realized with Australia’s two-Test series in Sri Lanka next year, which could present an opportunity. The selectors are likely to consider various spin options alongside Nathan Lyon, and Zampa’s experience and current form could prove advantageous. Although having two spinners in home Tests is rare, he might also get a chance in the Sheffield Shield, especially around Pakistan’s visit in November for ODIs and T20Is.
Nonetheless, Zampa understands the intense scrutiny that would follow his selection, especially in light of his first-class record. “Even if I do get picked in the upcoming subcontinent tours, people will say, well his record is averaging 46 with the ball, it’s not good enough, people will say that I’m sure, but if I do get picked I’ll know that the way I feel like I’m bowling, it’ll be fine,” he said.
Whether or not Test cricket materializes for Zampa, his commitment to representing Australia in international cricket remains steadfast. Following the triumph of the 2023 ODI World Cup, he opted out of the IPL and Major League Cricket (MLC) this year to focus on national duties. By signing a two-year central contract with Cricket Australia, Zampa has emphasized his dedication to the national team over the financial allure of franchise cricket.
“I was lucky to…be part of a winning World Cup team,” he said. “Looking forward, the franchise thing isn’t for me. I want to keep playing for Australia as long as I can, the feeling of success in that team is something I want more of. I’m lucky enough to have signed a two-year with Australia and it’s on the basis of wanting to play every game for Australia. It meant I had to make some decisions around franchise cricket.”
As the sole Australian men’s bowler with over 100 T20I wickets, Zampa continues to shine in the shortest format. Currently competing in The Hundred for the Oval Invincibles, he is tied as the leading wicket-taker. Despite his success, Zampa’s commitment to the Australian team remains unwavering, and he is eager to support their success across all formats.
With Australia’s forthcoming UK tour on the horizon—featuring three T20Is against Scotland, three against England, and five ODIs—Zampa maintains hope for his Test aspirations.
