Australia Announces 14-Member Squad for 2024 Women’s Ashes Series
Australia has unveiled its 14-member squad for the upcoming Women’s Ashes series, scheduled to begin on January 12, 2024. The squad brings together a mix of seasoned players and promising talents, with one notable absence. Spin-bowling all-rounder Sophie Molineux has been ruled out due to a knee injury. Australian physiotherapist Kate Beerworth confirmed that Molineux will undergo surgery on her left knee, and a decision regarding her return will be made after recovery. Molineux sustained the injury during the recent home series against India, making her absence significant for the team.
The squad selection comes after a series of strong performances by the Australian women’s team, including dominant results against India and New Zealand. Cricket Australia’s Head of Performance and National Selector, Shawn Flegler, expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and their balanced composition. He highlighted the return of wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy, who had missed the series against India but came back strong against New Zealand. Flegler praised Healy’s form and also recognized several other batters who continued their good run, underscoring the team’s readiness for the Ashes challenge.
One rising star in the squad is Georgia Voll, who made her international debut during the ODI series against India. While Voll did not feature in the New Zealand series, Flegler praised her promising start to her international career, emphasizing her potential as a strong batting option for the Ashes series. Voll’s inclusion adds an exciting dimension to the squad, with the potential for her to make a mark in her debut Ashes campaign.
The Women’s Ashes series will kick off with three One-Day Internationals from January 12 to 17, followed by a three-match T20I series on January 20, 23, and 25. The series will conclude with a Day-Night Test match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, beginning on January 30. This series is pivotal for both teams, as Australia seeks to defend the Ashes and maintain its dominance in women’s cricket.
Squad: Alyssa Healy, Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris (T20s only), Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham
