Callum Ferguson

A highly-rated cricketer, Callum Ferguson’s blossoming career suffered a major blow in 2009 when a serious knee injury that he suffered during the Champions Trophy final ruled him out for the entire season. But such was the selectors’ faith in his talents that he not only managed to retain his contract, but was also elevated to South Australia’s vice-captaincy in 2010-11.

The right-hander who graduated from the ‘Centre of Excellence’ in 2002 was also part of Australia’s 2004 Under-19 World Cup squad. The same year he made his first-class debut and went on to have a stellar season scoring 733 runs. He consolidated the next season and his performances in the middle-order in limited overs cemented his status as one of the brightest young talents in the country. He made his ODI debut against New Zealand in 2009 and from his first 25 games boasted of an average of 46.08.

Ferg’s ability to pick the line of the delivery early, his solidity and timing impressed Ponting who touted him as Australia’s future Test mainstay. However, it is his temperament that has raised questions as he is often criticised for throwing away starts, an aspect he will have to work on if he is to actualize his potential.