Selectors haven't raised Test debut with Connolly

Cooper Connolly has not yet heard from selectors about the possibility of making a whirlwind Test debut in Sri Lanka as uncertainty lingers around Matthew Kuhnemann's return-to-play timeline.

Test bolter Connolly, 21, is the only left-arm offspinner participating in Australia's UAE training camp ahead of the two-Test tour, which Kuhnemann could miss with a thumb injury to his non-bowling hand.

Kuhnemann had appeared a good chance to add to his three Test caps in Galle, but the injury he suffered playing in the Big Bash League means he is likely to only join the squad in Sri Lanka if passed fit.

"I feel for 'Kuhney'," batting allrounder Connolly said in Dubai.

"He's a great man and you never wish for anyone to get injured. I hope he has a speedy recovery and hopefully we can see him soon."

If selectors want a left-arm offspinner to partner Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy on turning decks from January 29, they'll need to either hope Kuhnemann recovers, call in a new player at the 11th hour, or pick Connolly.

Connolly has played only four first-class matches, but made his Twenty20 International and one-day international debuts in a breakout 2024 calendar year.

When the 16-player squad was announced, Connolly had been considered only an outside chance to win a maiden baggy green in Sri Lanka.

Connolly denied Kuhnemann's injury had brought a Test debut closer to the front of his mind, and said he had not yet heard from selectors on those lines.

"We've only been here a day, so we'll let the next couple of days play out and then we'll go from there," he said.

"(Kuhnemann's injury) doesn't change my expectations. I've just come over here to learn, if I get my opportunity, try and make the most of it.

"I'll spend some time with Nathan Lyon, which will be nice. He's obviously a world-class bowler. It'll be nice to get some words from him and listen in, but also (Australian bowling coach) Dan Vettori will be nice."

Connolly has spent the Big Bash League summer at the Perth Scorchers working on his left-arm offies with former Test spinner Ashton Agar and assistant coach Beau Casson.

"'Cass' has been very good for me," Connolly said.

"I've spent a little bit of time with him over the last couple of weeks just getting some technical things right and just sort of nailing down that.

"We'll keep in contact while I'm away."