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In the historic pink-ball Test of the 2025 Women’s Ashes between Australia and England, home captain Alyssa Healy won the toss and chose to bowl first at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The decision aligned with expectations, given the pitch’s reputation for assisting seamers during the initial two days of play.
Why is Kate Cross missing the pink-ball Test?
A significant change in England’s playing XI was the absence of right-arm pacer Kate Cross. England captain Heather Knight provided an update on Cross’ fitness, expressing disappointment over her unavailability for the crucial match while acknowledging her efforts to regain full fitness. As a result, Cross was replaced in the lineup by fellow fast bowler Ryana MacDonald-Gay.
“Kate Cross is unfortunately not going to be playing. She’s been amazing. She’s worked so diligently to try and get over her (back) injury. Worked really hard, but she hasn’t quite been able to get back to her pace and her performance level. Really gutted for her, because she’s a key member for us, and it’s been really great to have her back around the group actually the last couple of days, she’s a huge member of the team and a leader in this group,” was quoted as saying by the ICC.
AUS-W vs ENG-W: Playing XI of both teams:
England Women: Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Heather Knight(c), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Sophia Dunkley, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones(w), Sophie Ecclestone, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Lauren Filer, Lauren Bell
Australia Women: Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy(c), Annabel Sutherland, Beth Mooney(w), Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Alana King, Kim Garth, Darcie Brown
