Defending champions Australia name strong CWC25 squad
The seven-time Cricket World Cup winners walk into the upcoming edition as one of the favourites to go all the way.
Alyssa Healy will be taking charge of a strong 15-member Australia squad for the upcoming ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The defending champions, who claimed their seventh title last time around in New Zealand, boast an array of riches in their lineup.
Ten of the 15 members named featured in the previous edition of the tournament back in 2022, with skipper Alyssa Healy taking charge of the squad in her third Cricket World Cup.
Healy will be complemented by the likes of Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ash Gardner and Tahlia McGrath, who bring in a wealth of experience.
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, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham
The best of Alyssa Healy | CWC22
Left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux is also included and set to make her return from a knee injury during the World Cup, with Alana King and Georgia Wareham providing further depth to the spin bowling department.
Young batter Georgia Voll makes the cut and is in line for her first World Cup appearance, while Nicole Faltum and Charli Knott will be part of the Australia squad for the three-match ODI series against India that is prior to the 50-over showcase.
Sophie Molineux provides key breakthroughs to Australia | POTM Highlights | WT20WC 2024
Australia selector Shawn Flegler is happy with the balance of his squad and feels they will perform well at the tournament that commences on September 30
“A World Cup in India is one of cricket’s biggest assignments, but we believe this group is up for the challenge," Flegler said.
“The valuable experience the squad has gained from several sub-continent tours in recent years, as well as exposure through the Women’s Premier League will be beneficial in tackling the unique demands of Indian conditions.
“Across the winter we’ve seen some terrific performances right through the group - whether that be through the Australia A series, The Hundred or domestic cricket in England - with players personalising their preparations which looks to have put them in good stead.
“Nicole Faltum and Charli Knott continue to impress and will join the squad for the three ODIs as part of their ongoing development, before returning home for the opening rounds of the (Australian domestic competition) WNCL.
“The extended nature of an ODI World Cup can be a challenge, and we believe this group has the depth and versatility to meet those demands.”
Australia's first match at the World Cup in against trans-Tasman rival New Zealand in Indore on October 1.