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Australia captain Alyssa Healy won the toss and opted to bowl first against Pakistan in Match 14 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday (October 11).
Australia and Pakistan: ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
With victories in their first two matches against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Australia sits at the top of the table, one step closer to securing a semi-final spot. Led by a formidable bowling unit with Megan Schutt spearheading the pace attack, and batters like Healy, Beth Mooney and Ellyse Perry in fine form, Australia looks like the team to beat. Their well-rounded squad, with a strong spin department and no apparent weaknesses, makes them heavy favorites to continue their winning streak. However, despite their recent six-wicket loss to India, Pakistan showcased their potential when they defeated Sri Lanka earlier in the tournament. With a semi-final spot still within their reach, Pakistan will look to bounce back strongly.
The reason behind Fatima Sana’s absence
Pakistan faces this crucial match without their captain, Fatima Sana, who is missing due to her father’s death. At the toss, stand-in skipper Muneeba Ali acknowledged the setback, especially with Sana’s ability to balance the team both as a batter and a bowler. Despite her absence, Muneeba expressed confidence in leading the team and emphasized the importance of putting up a competitive total to challenge the reigning champions.
Pakistan made two key changes for this match: Iram Javed replaces Fatima, while Sadaf Shamas comes in for Gull Feroza. These changes were made to strengthen the team’s balance in the absence of their captain, and Muneeba mentioned the team’s determination to win the match in honor of Sana and her family.
“Obviously, Fatima is our captain and the qualities she possesses in batting and bowling are very good and she gives our team a good balance. So, obviously we will miss her as a captain and as a player, but we will try to win the match for her and her father,” Muneeba said.
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Reason behind Grace Harris’ unavailability
On the Australian side, Healy’s decision to bowl first was based on reading the fresh conditions under the lights, expecting the ball to come onto the bat well initially but grip and turn as the game progresses. Healy highlighted their adaptability, stating they are prepared for any changes in conditions.
Australia have made one change to their lineup, with Tayla Vlaeminck replacing Grace Harris. Healy explained this decision as a tactical move, aiming to add an extra bowling option to exploit the conditions. While Harris provided batting depth in previous games, this match called for a stronger bowling impact, aligning with Australia’s game plan of chasing down the target.
“We’ll have a bowl. It’s a fresh wicket, want to get the most of the conditions. Got to see what unfolds later. We have watched the games, this wicket has some spin. One change for us. We are going heavy with the ball tonight,” Healy said.
