Cricket Australia has announced a formidable squad for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies, which is scheduled to commence on October 1. This series will consist of three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and three One-Day Internationals (ODIs). However, the most notable absence from the squad is the regular skipper, Meg Lanning.
Lanning’s omission comes as a disappointment to cricket enthusiasts worldwide, especially considering her extended hiatus from competitive cricket. Her last appearance in the Australian colors was during the T20 World Cup in South Africa in February. Furthermore, she hasn’t participated in any matches since the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2023 in March, primarily due to an undisclosed medical condition that has kept her sidelined.
The latest update on Lanning’s health comes from Cricket Australia’s team doctor, Pip Inge, who mentioned that while Lanning is making progress in her recovery, there is no definite timeline for her return to competitive cricket. It is expected that her return will be gradual, starting with domestic cricket, but her availability for international duties remains uncertain. Inge stated, “Meg is progressing well but remains unavailable for competitive cricket. No date has been set for Meg’s return to play; however, we anticipate a gradual return through domestic cricket. CA medical staff will continue to work closely with Meg, and an update on her availability will be provided in due course.”
In Lanning’s absence, the experienced Alyssa Healy, who previously captained the Australian team during the 2023 Ashes series, has been entrusted with the captaincy once again. Healy is returning to the squad after a brief break due to a broken finger, which caused her to miss Australia’s previous series against Ireland. Adding to the Australian squad’s strength is the return of star all-rounder Ellyse Perry, who had been sidelined due to a knee injury. Perry’s comeback enhances the depth of the Australian team.
Backing up Healy’s leadership, Tahlia McGrath has been appointed as the vice-captain. The team boasts a star-studded lineup, promising an exciting series against the West Indies.
In summary, Cricket Australia has announced a strong squad for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies. While the absence of regular captain Meg Lanning is a setback, Alyssa Healy’s return and Ellyse Perry’s comeback bolster the team’s confidence. With Tahlia McGrath as vice-captain, the Australian squad looks well-prepared for an engaging series against the West Indies.
Australian women’s ODI squad:
Alyssa Healy (c/wk), Tahlia McGrath (vc), Phoebe Litchfield, Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Jess Jonassen, Kim Garth, Alana King, Megan Schutt, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ellyse Perry, Georgia Wareham.
Australian women’s T20I squad:
Alyssa Healy (c/wk), Tahlia McGrath (vc), Beth Mooney, Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Grace Harris, Kim Garth, Jess Jonassen, Megan Schutt, Phoebe Litchfield, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Ellyse Perry.
