Australian opener Ed Cowan has been awarded a full Cricket Australia contract for the summer after achieving sufficient upgrade points.

Cowan triggered the upgrade by playing three Tests since July this year, with his 136 against South Africa last month helping secure his spot in the side.

Australia’s Twenty20 captain George Bailey was upgraded in August, while Glenn Maxwell was elevated in September after playing four one-dayers and four T20s during the eligible period.

Cowan, 30, has played 10 Tests since making his debut against India last December, and has formed a unique opening partnership with the hard-hitting David Warner.