Cricket Australia have officially announced the Women’s One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) squads for the much-anticipated Women’s Ashes series, scheduled to start in January 2025. The series will culminate with a one-off Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on February 2, 2025.

Squad leadership and key players

Alyssa Healy will continue to captain the Australian side in both formats, despite a recent knee concern that might see her stepping back from wicketkeeping duties. Tahlia McGrath steps up as vice-captain, demonstrating the team’s confidence in her leadership skills. The squad includes pivotal players like Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, and Annabel Sutherland. These players are expected to play significant roles with their versatile skills, contributing both with bat and ball.

Emerging and returning talent

An exciting addition to both squads is Georgia Voll, whose recent performances, especially in her debut series against India, have earned her a spot. Grace Harris will feature only in the T20I squad, bringing her aggressive batting flair, while Alana King will join for the ODIs, adding depth to the spin department.

Also READ: England unveil 2025 Women’s Ashes squads for Australia tour

Sophie Molineux misses out

The announcement, however, comes with the shadow of injuries. Sophie Molineux, known for her all-round capabilities, will miss the series due to a knee injury necessitating surgery. This is a significant loss for Australia. Healy’s knee issue might also limit her role, with Mooney potentially stepping in as the wicket-keeper for the ODIs.

Series schedule:

The Women’s Ashes 2025 will feature three ODIs and three T20Is, with venues spread across Australia:

• ODI Matches: January 11 at North Sydney Oval, Sydney; January 13 at Junction Oval, Melbourne; January 16 at Bellerive Oval, Hobart.
• T20I Matches: January 20 at Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney; January 23 at Manuka Oval, Canberra; January 25 at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.

Australia squad (ODI/T20Is) for Women’s Ashes 2025

Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris (T20s only), Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath (vc), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham

Also READ: All you need to know about Pratika Rawal: India Women’s talented newcomer

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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