Hardie To Lead WA Into New Shield Era

Hardie is no stranger to leadership, having served as stand-in Perth Scorchers captain during Ashton Turner’s injury absence in KFC BBL|13 and previously leading WA to success at the 2017 Cricket Australia Under-19 National Championships.

The 27-year-old Willetton product has become a highly respected figure within the WA and Scorchers programs, playing an influential role in tactical planning and leadership discussions across all formats.

A regular representative for Australia in ODI and T20I cricket, Hardie was recently named in the Australian Men’s squad for next month’s T20I series against Bangladesh.

Hardie has also spent several years as part of WA Cricket’s Hussey Group - a leadership development program designed to nurture the organisation’s next generation of leaders.

He succeeds prolific batter Sam Whiteman, who captained WA’s Sheffield Shield side across the past three full seasons following periods as stand-in skipper. 

Whiteman’s tenure included consecutive Sheffield Shield titles in 2022-23 and 2023-24 along with the 2023-24 One Day Cup crown while deputising for the injured Ashton Turner.

Leading from the front as Player of the Final in 2023-24, Whiteman became just the fourth man to captain WA to multiple Shield titles, joining John Inverarity (four), Graeme Wood (three) and Tom Moody (two). 

While stepping away from the captaincy, Whiteman is set to remain a critical figure within the WA squad heading into the 2026-27 season.

Ashton Turner will continue his role as both Perth Scorchers BBL and WA One Day Cup captain.

WA Men's coach Beau Casson believes Hardie has all the ingredients to thrive in the prestigious role, as his predecessor Sam Whiteman did. 

“Aaron is someone who commands enormous respect within our group through the way he prepares, competes and carries himself every day," Casson said. 

“He has a strong understanding of the game, a measured approach under pressure and genuine care for the people around him, which makes him an outstanding fit to lead the team moving forward.

“We’re also incredibly grateful for the leadership Sam has provided over a sustained period of success, and we know his experience and influence will continue to be invaluable within the group moving forward.”

Hardie is excited by the prospect of guiding his teammates during a new era for the WA Men's side. 

“I’m incredibly honoured to be given the opportunity to captain WA in the Sheffield Shield and lead a group that means a great deal to me," Hardie said. 

“We’ve got a strong culture here and a playing group full of quality people, so I’m excited to work closely with Beau and the wider squad as we head into a new season.

“I’ve learned a great deal from the leaders and players around me over the years, and I’m looking forward to bringing my own approach to the role while helping create an environment where the group can thrive.”