Australian fast-bowling all-rounder Fergus O’Neill is set to join Nottinghamshire for the opening month of next season's County Championship. The 23-year-old, named Victoria’s player of the season and awarded the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year, impressed in the Sheffield Shield with 40 wickets at an average of 17.25, including a standout performance against South Australia with five wickets in each innings.
O’Neill has also demonstrated his capability with the bat, boasting a top score of 70 not out and an average of 22 in the current Sheffield Shield season. Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores expressed optimism about the short-term deal evolving into a longer arrangement, emphasising O’Neill’s suitability for early-season English conditions.
Moores highlighted the pacer’s consistency and ability to generate lateral movement, qualities expected to complement the team's bowling attack. Additionally, O’Neill’s batting skills are seen as a valuable asset for the lower middle order, a critical area for runs early in the season.
The Australian all-rounder will be available for Nottinghamshire’s matches against Durham, Essex, and Sussex at Trent Bridge, as well as the away fixture at Warwickshire. His presence will help cover for Dane Paterson, who will miss the start of the season due to international commitments with South Africa.
The club looks forward to leveraging O’Neill’s growing talent to bolster their early-season campaign.