Rockingham-Mandurah fast bowler secures state contract

A young Rockingham-Mandurah cricketer has earned his first state contract with Western Australia.

Albert Esterhuysen made a strong impression last season for the Mariners, playing 14 matches and taking 28 wickets.  

The 20-year-old tall right-arm quick also made his mark on the national stage, representing WA in the Under 19 National Championships in Adelaide.

The South African-born paceman enjoyed a stellar campaign, taking eight wickets. 

Esterhuysen’s potential didn’t go unnoticed and was rewarded with a call-up to Western Australia’s Second XI.

He featured in two Toyota Second XI matches, a significant step in the pathway toward first-class cricket. 

Esterhuysen made his presence felt in the Perth Scorchers Academy’s success in the Top End Series in Darwin.

His standout performance came against Bangladesh A, where he took 2-21 off four overs.  

Such was the impact he made in the Top End T20 campaign, Esterhuysen was chosen in WA’s 14-man squad for the first two One-Day Cup matches of season 2025-26.  

Esterhuysen said he models himself off retired South African great Morne Morkel. 

“Growing up in South Africa, it was definitely Morne Morkel,” Estherhuysen said. 

“He was a tall fast bowler who would hit the deck hard. 

“I was a tall as a youngster and basing my game off him gave me a sense of where I want to take my cricket.  

“The WACA Ground is known for its pace and steep bounce and it’s an awesome opportunity to get out there as your home ground.”