However, if McDonald had left in mid-2026, a new coach would have arrived at an awkward time. Australia’s 2027 schedule looks like one of the most intense years the men’s team has ever had. They host four Tests with New Zealand in December and January 2026-27 before playing five Tests in India in January and February. They then return home for a one-off Test against England in March to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Test cricket, and a two-Test series at home against Bangladesh is also scheduled but is likely to be postponed.
There will then be a WTC final, if they qualify, followed by a tour of five Test Ashes. The next ODI World Cup will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia during October and November 2027.
“I am very fortunate to have an exceptional group of leaders, players, coaches and staff who are fully committed to the well-being, success and continued development of this group,” McDonald said. “The professionalism, commitment and experience of my fellow coaches and wider staff has ensured that the journey has been extremely successful but, equally importantly, has created a culture of unity, trust and inclusivity.
“International cricket presents many challenges for all teams and I am particularly proud of how the group, players and staff, across all formats, have overcome them together.”
McDonald took over as head coach after Langer’s ugly departure in early 2022 and has guided the men’s team to significant success, including the 2023 ODI World Cup and World Test Championship titles. The extension means he will get a chance to win Test series in India and England, which have recently eluded the team.
Australia are currently in a race to qualify for next year’s WTC final at Lord’s in a bid to defend that title with the upcoming India series vital to their prospects.
Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, said: “Andrew has proven to be an excellent men’s head coach who, in addition to delivering exceptional results, has created a strong coaching team, methodology and an excellent environment for the team to perform.” “We are delighted to extend his mandate for two more years.
