Jackson Bird Returns to Tasmania for Final Sheffield Shield Season

Jackson Bird Returns to Tasmania for Final Sheffield Shield Season

Veteran fast bowler Jackson Bird will return to Tasmania for the 2025–26 Sheffield Shield season, reuniting with the state where his illustrious first-class career began more than a decade ago. The 38-year-old had spent the past two seasons with New South Wales, but will now finish his career in Hobart, where he played the bulk of his cricket.

Bird, who made his Shield debut for Tasmania in the 2011–12 season after moving from NSW, went on to become one of the most consistent performers in Australian domestic cricket. He also played nine Tests for Australia.

Although he had expected to retire with NSW, Bird enjoyed a strong 2024–25 Shield campaign, taking 34 wickets at an average of 17.20 across seven matches. His performances earned him a spot among the season’s top wicket-takers and reignited the possibility of one final run with Tasmania.

“Two years ago, I probably didn't think I would get the opportunity to play for Tassie again,” Bird said. “I am really grateful to be able to come back here and finish my career with Tassie after spending so many years here.”

Chasing More Milestones

Bird’s return to Tasmania is not just symbolic — he remains on the verge of several major milestones. He is already the state’s all-time leading wicket-taker in Shield cricket with 350 scalps, and is just 35 wickets away from second place on the all-time national list. He also needs only seven more games to reach 100 Shield appearances.

A Boost for Tasmania’s Bowling Unit

Tasmania’s high-performance manager, Salliann Beams, welcomed Bird’s return, highlighting the value of his experience and leadership, especially after a season plagued by injuries among the pace attack and the absence of Beau Webster due to Test duty.

“His talent and bowling expertise around our group once again should excite all of Tasmanian cricket,” Beams said. “Our bowling stocks were tested last season through injury, and the experience of Jackson will give us another reliable option… while being able to provide his mentorship to a bowling group that has an exciting future.”

Building for the Future

Alongside Bird’s return, Tasmania have strengthened their pace options with the signing of tall left-arm quick Marcus Bean, who made a name for himself in the BBL with Hobart Hurricanes, and secured Riley Meredith on a new contract, fending off interest from Victoria.

As Tasmania look to rebuild and compete strongly in the 2025–26 Shield season, Bird’s experience and form could prove pivotal in what promises to be a fitting farewell campaign for one of domestic cricket’s modern greats.

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