Reigning Champions Australia announce squad for T20 World Cup

Australia has announced a formidable squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, set to take place in October.The six-time champions have named a well-rounded 15-player team, with Alyssa Healy leading the side following the retirement of former captain Meg Lanning. Tahlia McGrath has been appointed as vice-captain.

There are three changes from the squad that won the World Cup last year, with Tayla Vlaeminck, Phoebe Litchfield, and Sophie Molineux coming in to replace Heather Graham, Jess Jonassen, and Meg Lanning.

Vlaeminck strengthens the pace attack, joining Megan Schutt, Kim Garth, Darcie Brown, and Ellyse Perry. Molineux adds depth to a robust spin lineup that includes Ash Gardner, Alana King, and Georgia Wareham. Litchfield, a promising young talent, could open the batting alongside Healy or Beth Mooney.

Selector Shawn Flegler expressed confidence in the team’s balance, stating, “This is the first time in a long while we’ve had our entire contract list available for selection ahead of a World Cup, resulting in a stable and balanced squad.”Australia is drawn in Group A, competing against India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. (UNI)

Australia Squad:Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham.