Alyssa Healy’s Participation in Ashes Test in Doubt
Australia’s preparations for the highly anticipated Women’s Ashes Test at the MCG have been overshadowed by fitness concerns surrounding their captain, Alyssa Healy. The star cricketer, battling a stress reaction in her foot, has been named in the 13-player squad but may only play as a batter if she proves her fitness in time.
Squad Changes and Key Players to Watch
With Healy potentially unable to take on wicketkeeping duties, Beth Mooney will step in as the primary keeper, a role she has played occasionally but admits will be physically demanding in a Test match.
Australia’s 13-Player Squad for the Ashes Test:
- Alyssa Healy (captain)
- Darcie Brown
- Ashleigh Gardner
- Kim Garth
- Alana King
- Phoebe Litchfield
- Tahlia McGrath
- Beth Mooney (wk)
- Ellyse Perry
- Megan Schutt
- Annabel Sutherland
- Georgia Voll
- Georgia Wareham
Georgia Voll Set for a Possible Test Debut
Young allrounder Georgia Voll is in contention for her Test debut. Voll has already made her mark in ODIs and T20Is within the last two months, showcasing her adaptability and readiness to step into higher roles. If selected, Voll may slot into the top order alongside Mooney.
Voll’s Perspective:
“I love batting up the top and partnering with Beth Mooney was an incredible experience. I’m ready to contribute wherever the team needs,” said Voll during a press conference in Canberra.
Ashleigh Gardner and Megan Schutt’s Roles
- Ashleigh Gardner is recovering from a calf strain and remains doubtful for the final T20I in Adelaide. However, she is expected to be fit for the Test match.
- Veteran pacer Megan Schutt is back in the Test squad. Despite her limited recent involvement in the format, the pink-ball Test at the MCG could see her play a vital role.
Historic Day-Night Test at the MCG
This Test match is historic in more ways than one:
- It will be the first women’s day-night Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
- The MCG will host a women’s Test match for the first time since the 1948-49 season.
The match promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with Australia aiming to assert dominance in the multi-format series.
FAQs
Q: Will Alyssa Healy play in the Women’s Ashes Test?
A: Alyssa Healy has been named in the squad but will play only as a batter if her fitness improves.
Q: Who will keep wickets in Healy’s absence?
A: Beth Mooney is expected to take over the wicketkeeping duties for the Test match.
Q: Is Georgia Voll likely to debut in the Ashes Test?
A: Yes, Georgia Voll is a strong contender for her Test debut, especially if the team opts for additional batting strength.
Q: What makes this Test match historic?
A: This will be the first women’s day-night Test at the MCG and the first women’s Test at the venue since 1948-49.
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