Australia have announced a 15-player squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan and T20 World Cup, with both Alyssa Healy and Georgia Wareham named to return from injury.
After securing a series win over India in December, the Aussies will now turn their attention to the ODI and T20I clashes with Pakistan later this month, before defending their T20WC title in February.
Australia will face Pakistan in three 50-over games and three 20-over games, which will act as a lead-in for the World Cup on home soil.
Healy will be back on deck as vice-captain after overcoming a calf injury, while leg-spinner Wareham will return from a lengthy layoff due to an ACL injury.
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Meg Lanning will also feature as captain, after returning from an indefinite break in state cricket.
National selector Shawn Flegler admitted there were some tough decisions involved with naming the squad.
“It’s always tough to narrow a squad down to just 15 players, but we’re confident we’ve picked a well-balanced side that’s well placed for the series against Pakistan and ready to challenge for a third consecutive T20 title," he said.
“Seeing Meg and Georgia back in action for Victoria has been exciting. Both bring a wealth of experience to the group, which is always crucial during major tournaments.
“Georgia in particular, has had a tough run of injuries, but she’s shown a great deal of resilience and her return is a real boost for the side.
“Alyssa and Jess [Jonassen] are expected to be fully fit and firing after minor injuries as well, so we’ve got a full-strength squad with plenty of variety with both bat and ball if required.
“Heather [Graham] and Kim [Garth] both impressed when given the chance during the India series, and we know they are ready to perform their role if the opportunity presents.
“Unfortunately, there was no room for Nicola [Carey], Phoebe [Litchfield] or Amanda-Jade [Wellington], but they’re still well and truly in our plans and are on standby should they be required.”
Australia Women's T20 World Cup squad
- Meg Lanning (c)
- Alyssa Healy (vc)
- Darcie Brown
- Ashleigh Gardner
- Kim Garth
- Heather Graham
- Grace Harris
- Jess Jonassen
- Alana King
- Tahlia McGrath
- Beth Mooney
- Ellyse Perry
- Megan Schutt
- Annabel Sutherland
- Georgia Wareham
The first ODI will take place on Monday, January 16th before the T20 series begins on Tuesday, 24th January.
Australia will kick off their T20 World Cup defence against New Zealand on February 12th.
