Brisbane, 20 July 2026:
Australia wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey says he is eager to return to red-ball cricket and is excited by the prospect of another memorable home Test summer, with Bangladesh and New Zealand set to provide stern challenges.
Speaking at the launch marking 150 days until the Adelaide Test against New Zealand, Carey described the annual fixture as one of the highlights of the Australian cricket calendar.
“The Adelaide Test is one all the players love being part of,” Carey said. “It’s always a fantastic occasion. New Zealand are playing really good cricket, so it’s going to be a huge summer.”
The 34-year-old reflected on the most recent Adelaide Test, where Australia secured the Ashes series, describing it as one of his favourite career memories.
“It was really special. It was a great Ashes series and we were able to wrap it up here. There were also some personal milestones for Travis Head and myself, and it was a great Test to be involved in.”
Carey said Adelaide Oval consistently produces entertaining cricket for both players and spectators.
“There’s always something in the pitch for the bowlers, but there are usually runs to be scored as well. The weather is normally beautiful and the fans really enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a great Test match to be part of.”
The wicketkeeper welcomed the certainty around Adelaide’s position in the Australian Test schedule, believing it benefits both players and supporters.
“It helps everyone knowing when the Test is going to be played. The members and fans can plan ahead, particularly with school holidays around that time, and for the players it creates a familiar rhythm through the home summer.”
Looking ahead to the home series against New Zealand, Carey said Australia would not underestimate the Black Caps despite recent changes to their squad.
“They’re a very balanced cricket team and have shown how well they can perform away from home. They’ve had some outstanding results over the last couple of years and we know they’ll be a formidable opponent.”
Before the New Zealand series, Australia will begin its ICC World Test Championship campaign against Bangladesh, with Carey eager to return after several months away from first-class cricket.
“My last red-ball game was the Sheffield Shield final, so it’s been a while. I’ve played some white-ball cricket, but I’m really looking forward to getting back with the Test squad.”
Preparation has already begun with South Australia before the national squad assembles for a training camp in Brisbane ahead of the Bangladesh series in Darwin.
“I’m excited to get back playing the format I love. The break was important mentally and physically, but now I’m keen to get back out there.”
Carey also paid tribute to England captain Ben Stokes and former coach Brendon McCullum following the end of their respective tenures, describing both as influential figures in modern Test cricket.
“Ben has had a fantastic career and has been one of the toughest competitors I’ve faced. Brendon McCullum was someone I loved watching growing up as a wicketkeeper. They’ve both been great for the game.”
Australia will begin its Test campaign against Bangladesh before hosting South Africa and New Zealand later in the home summer.
Carey has represented Australia in 48 Tests, scoring 2,333 runs at an average of 35.89, including three centuries and 13 half-centuries. He has also featured in 91 One-Day Internationals and 42 T20 Internationals, establishing himself as one of Australia’s most experienced wicketkeeper-batters across formats.
