Young Australian fast bowler Mahli Beardman says he is ready to seize his chance at an ODI debut against England, with the series opener scheduled for 13 November at Optus Stadium in Perth — his home ground. Beardman is firmly in the running for his first ODI cap and has made clear he intends to make the most of the opportunity should it arrive.

'The selection is well above my head, so if that opportunity arrives, I'll try and grab it with both hands. I feel like I'm ready to go out and play some good cricket again,' Beardman told reporters on Thursday.

Warm-Up at the WACA Offers Early Audition

Before the series begins, Beardman will get an early chance to press his case when Western Australia take on England in a one-day warm-up at the WACA on Saturday. He views the fixture as more than just a hit-out — it is a chance to gather tactical intelligence on England's batting order ahead of the rest of the Australian squad.

'I think it's just an awesome hit out. I think it's a great chance to really get some insight into their top order and how they play. It's an opportunity to get a look at them earlier than the rest of the squad and pass some information on,' he said.

From BBL Battles to Australia A Fireworks

Beardman has been part of Australia's squads for two years, steadily building a reputation as a promising pace prospect. His most high-profile moment came during last season's Big Bash League (BBL) finals, when he dismissed Steven Smith in a gripping battle that generated significant buzz about his potential. He has since reinforced that promise by tearing through a strong India A batting line-up on Australia A's recent tour — a performance that has accelerated calls for his elevation.

Only International Outing and the Injury Setback

His sole international appearance to date came in a T20I in Pakistan earlier this year, where he removed Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi off successive deliveries to finish with figures of 2-33 from four overs. However, a stress fracture in his lower back flared up shortly afterwards, cutting short his season prematurely.

'The timing of it was pretty rough. I feel like I was feeling quite nice at the back of the Big Bash. It was just one of those things... I think it's understanding my body as I'm growing and developing. It was extremely frustrating, but I'm super fortunate to be able to come back. Spent a good four or five months in the gym and built my body up,' he said.

Test Cricket on the Radar, But Focus Stays Game-by-Game

Beardman has also been working on the defensive side of his white-ball game, recognising that adaptability is essential at the top level. While speculation about his Test cricket prospects has grown, he is taking a measured approach. His immediate priority is proving his fitness and showing he can handle back-to-back matches without soreness or injury recurrence.

'It's still at the forefront of my mind. It's just prioritising getting back, playing cricket first, proving my fitness and that my body can handle it,' he said, adding that there is no set date yet for a return to Sheffield Shield cricket. The 13 November series opener will be a defining moment in what could be the beginning of a significant international career.