Pacer misses out as Australia unveil squad for T20 World Cup

Australia have sprung a surprise by leaving out key pacer Darcie Brown from their squad for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

Brown has featured for the Aussies at the two most recent editions of the tournament, but selectors have opted for inexperienced left-armer Lucy Hamilton in her place.

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Hamilton's inclusion ahead of Brown is the only major surprise within the Aussies' squad, with left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux named to lead the side despite a recent raft of injury concerns.

Hamilton had captained Australia at last year’s ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup and has since gone on to make her debut for the senior side across all formats.

The six-time ICC Women’s T20 World Cup champions are powered by seasoned campaigners such as Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ash Gardner, Tahlia McGrath and Megan Schutt in their ranks.

Australia’s stellar batting unit also comprises Phoebe Litchfield, who played in the previous edition two years ago, and Georgia Voll, set to make her tournament debut this English summer.

Perry, who has featured in every edition of the tournament since 2009, stands on the verge of becoming the first player to feature in 50 Women’s T20 World Cup matches. 

Having made her comeback into Australia’s T20I side recently, Nicola Carey - part of the 2020 triumphant squad - also seals her spot. 

Keeper-batter Tahlia Wilson is included as the travelling reserve.

Australia selector Shawn Flegler believes his squad is well balanced and is confident in their ability to push for another title.

“These squads are never easy to select but we’re confident with the balance and stability we’ve got across the group. It’s an experienced group and one we believe is capable of winning the World Cup," he said.

“Sophie has already made her mark as captain and built a strong connection with the group over the last couple of tours, so we’re looking forward to seeing what this side can achieve under her leadership.

“Darcie Brown was unlucky to miss out but the decision was based on the conditions we’re expecting and the makeup of the side. With at least six right-arm pace options in the mix and raw pace expected to be less effective, we opted to go with Lucy Hamilton who offers something different as a left-arm quick.

“Grace Harris comes into the side having missed the recent series against the West Indies. She’s a handy all-round option and someone who can take the game away from an opposition.

“We’re pleased to welcome Annabel Sutherland back from an extended break as well, she’s fresh and ready to go and will play an important role throughout the tournament.

Australia are slotted in Group 1 of the T20 World Cup, alongside South Africa, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands. 

In their tournament opener, the Aussies will lock horns against the Proteas on June 13 at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Australia squad: Sophie Molineux (c), Nicola Carey, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham. Travelling reserve: Tahlia Wilson

Australia’s T20 World Cup fixtures (group stage)

v South Africa: June 13, Manchester, 2:30 PM

v Bangladesh: June 17, Headingley, 10:30 AM

v Netherlands: June 20, Hampshire Bowl, 10:30 AM

v Pakistan: June 23, Headingley, 6:30 PM

v India: June 28, Lord’s, 2:30 PM