Merlo was in the Cricket Australia XI squad for the 2017–18 JLT One-Day Cup. He made his List A debut in the first match of the tournament when Cricket Australia XI won their second match in their existence against South Australia. He bowled seven overs with figures of 2/38 including a maiden over. He took his first List A wicket when he bowled Cameron Valente, who was on 100 at the time.[2] He played four matches in the tournament and took a total of 5 wickets.[4]