Australia Announces Squad for Women's T20 World Cup 2024: Healy to Lead

Australia has revealed its 15-player squad for the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, now set in the UAE. Darcie Brown returns from injury, while Jess Jonassen is left out. Alyssa Healy will captain the squad as they aim for a fourth consecutive title.

Australia has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup 2024, now relocated from Bangladesh to the UAE. Darcie Brown, who recovered from a stress fracture of the foot, rejoins the team. However, Jess Jonassen, who missed the Bangladesh series, has not been included in the World Cup squad.

Sophie Molineux and Grace Harris have recovered from rib and calf injuries, respectively, and are named in the 15-player squad. Tayla Vlaeminck will team up with Brown to add more pace to Australia's bowling attack. Young batter Phoebe Litchfield will make her debut in the T20 World Cup.

Alyssa Healy will captain the squad, aiming for a fourth consecutive T20 World Cup title. "This is the first time in a long while that our entire contract list is available for selection ahead of a World Cup, leading to a stable and balanced squad. Alyssa will captain for the first time at a World Cup, and she, alongside Tahlia, offers exciting leadership," said national selector Shawn Flegler.

Flegler also highlighted Phoebe Litchfield's potential as a 'real x-factor' supported by an experienced group. The pace duo of Tayla and Darcie is also seen as a strategic advantage. Despite Jonassen's exclusion, Flegler commended her for bouncing back strongly and assured continued monitoring of her form.

Before the T20 World Cup, Australia's 15-player squad will face New Zealand in a three-match T20I series starting on September 19. The tournament itself will kick off on October 3, with England and South Africa opening the series.

Australia's Women's T20 World Cup squad: Alyssa Healy (capt, wk), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Tayla Vlaeminck.

(With inputs from agencies.)