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Cricket Australia have unveiled their 16-member squad for the upcoming multi-format tour of India, featuring star players Alyssa Healy and Darcie Brown, who have made a comeback despite injury concerns. The left-arm seamer Lauren Cheatle has also returned for the Test match. However, the team is yet to finalize who will step into the shoes of the recently retired Meg Lanning as captain.
Meg Lanning’s departure marks a transition
The announcement comes just five days after Meg Lanning‘s unexpected retirement, marking the end of her nearly decade-long tenure as skipper for Australian women’s cricket. The absence of a designated captain adds an element of transition to the team dynamics.
Alyssa Healy tipped as frontrunner
Vice-captain Alyssa Healy, who has filled in during Lanning’s absences over the past year, is considered the frontrunner for the captaincy role. Having expressed her interest in the position, Healy appears eager to step up and lead the team through the upcoming challenges.
Also READ: 7-times World Cup winner Meg Lanning calls time on her stunning international career
The multi-format series
The squad includes Lauren Cheatle, specifically recalled for the Test match, marking Australia’s first in India since 1984. The one-off Test is scheduled to commence on December 21 in Mumbai, followed by a three-match ODI and T20I series.
National selector Shawn Flegler, in an official statement, provided insights into Healy’s condition, stating, “Alyssa Healy’s finger is healing but remains in a splint, and our medical team is continuing to monitor her recovery closely. We’re obviously very hopeful she will be available for the Test, but those decisions are still a while away.”
Australia squad for the multi-format tour of India:
Darcie Brown, Lauren Cheatle (Test only), Heather Graham, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris (T20), Alyssa Healy, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham.
