Alyssa Healy Named Australia Women Captain For India T20I Tour

Cricket Australia on Tuesday named veteran wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy skipper of a 15-member Australian women’s side for the forthcoming five-match T20 series against India because Meg Lanning is still out.

Tahlia McGrath, a well-known all-rounder, has been selected vice-captain for the series, which will feature games at the DY Patil and Brabourne Stadiums in Mumbai.

The event will run from December 9 to December 20. The DY Patil Stadium will host the first two games, and Brabourne will host the final three.

Three Changes In The Australian Team

Alyssa Healy is in charge of a team that has seen three changes, including the addition of an exceptionally gifted kid and an ex-Irish international.

Following their inclusion in the team, the 19-year-old Phoebe Litchfield, the former Ireland fast Kim Garth, and the all-rounder Heather Graham are expected to make their T20I debuts.

The trip gains importance because it serves as a warm-up for the T20 World Cup in South Africa in February of next year. The Australian team that won gold at the Commonwealth Games in August has undergone three alterations.

India Will Be A Good Test: Shawn Flegler

Shawn Flegler, national selector and head of performance for women’s cricket in Australia, said: “These five matches form an important part of the team’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in South Africa as well as providing an opportunity for some players to gain some experience in Indian conditions.”

“India will be a good test; they’re a strong side and the two teams have had some good battles in recent times.

“Without Meg and Rachael, this series will provide opportunities for players, particularly in the top order, so we’re looking forward to seeing who puts their hand up.”

Alyssa Healy Deserves The Opportunity To Lead The Side: Shawn Flegler

Healy was promoted after being named vice-captain when Rachael Haynes announced her retirement from international cricket in September.

On December 4, Australia will depart for India.

Talking about Alyssa, the selector said: “Alyssa will get the chance to lead the side in Meg’s absence which is exciting, and Tahlia will no doubt take plenty from being her deputy.

“She’s worked hard on developing that side of her game and thoroughly deserves the opportunity.”

Australia women’s squad: Alyssa Healy (c), Tahlia McGrath, Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Grace Harris, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt and Annabel Sutherland.

Also Read: Narayan Jagadeesan And Sai Sudharshan Break World Record For Highest Partnership In List-A Cricket