Born on December 7, 1994, Matthew Kelly is quickly making a name for himself in the world of Australian cricket. With a promising career that includes appearances in List A matches, first-class cricket, and even the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL), Kelly is a talent to watch out for.
Early Cricketing Days
Matthew Kelly’s journey in the world of cricket began to take shape when he represented the Australia Under-19 team in 2013. During that time, he faced formidable opponents like India, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. These early experiences on the international stage provided him with valuable exposure and helped him hone his skills.
Rookie Contract with Western Australia
In April 2016, Kelly received a significant boost to his cricketing career when he was awarded a rookie contract with the Western Australia cricket team. This recognition signaled the start of his professional journey in domestic cricket.
First-Class Debut
Kelly made his mark in first-class cricket during the 2017–18 Sheffield Shield season. His debut for Western Australia took place on October 26, 2017, marking a significant milestone in his career. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his skills and compete at the highest level of Australian domestic cricket.
Stepping Up for Perth Scorchers
The year 2018 brought another turning point for Matthew Kelly when he was selected as a replacement player for the Perth Scorchers. This opportunity arose when Andrew Tye was called up to represent the Australian national team. Kelly made his Twenty20 debut for the Scorchers, contributing with a wicket and a catch during the match. This exposure to top-tier T20 cricket further enriched his experience.
IPL Experience
In April 2019, Matthew Kelly’s talent caught the attention of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), a franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was signed by KKR as a replacement player for the South African bowler Anrich Nortje, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury. This stint in the IPL allowed Kelly to rub shoulders with some of the best cricketers in the world and gain valuable insights into the demands of high-pressure T20 cricket.
Continued Ascent
Despite being released by the Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the 2020 IPL auction, Matthew Kelly’s cricketing journey is far from over. His experiences in List A matches, first-class cricket, and the IPL have equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to continue making strides in his career.
As a rising star of Australian cricket, Matthew Kelly’s determination, commitment, and talent make him a promising prospect for the future. With each opportunity he seizes, he moves one step closer to achieving his dreams in the world of cricket. Watch out for this young and dynamic cricketer as he continues to make his mark on the sport.
