Australia Women have made a bold selection for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the UAE this October, by omitting experienced spinner Jess Jonassen and including pace bowler Tayla Vlaeminck in their 15-member squad.
Heather Graham, who will feature in the T20I series against New Zealand at home prior to the World Cup, has not been included in the squad travelling to the UAE.
Squad:
Alyssa Healy (C), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath (VC), Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Tayla Vlaeminck
Australia have opted for consistency, retaining the same squad that participated in their last T20I series in Bangladesh earlier this year. Originally, Bangladesh was slated to host the World Cup, but political unrest necessitated a change in venues to the UAE.
Shawn Flegler, Cricket Australia's Head of Performance (Women's Cricket) and National Selector, highlighted the importance of stability in the selection process, noting that this was the first time in a while that the entire contracted list of players was available ahead of a World Cup. He emphasised that Phoebe Litchfield, making her World Cup debut, brings a unique x-factor to the team, supported by a wealth of experience. Flegler also expressed excitement about the pace pairing of Tayla Vlaeminck and Darcie Brown, which has been eagerly anticipated.
Vlaeminck's return to the Australian side marks a significant comeback after an 18-month absence due to a stress injury sustained before the 2022 ODI World Cup, followed by a shoulder injury prior to WBBL 2023. She made her return during the T20I leg of Australia’s tour of Bangladesh.
Jess Jonassen, on the other hand, has not played for Australia in T20Is since the 2023 home series against the West Indies, with her last international appearance being the Test match against India at Wankhede later that year. Despite her omission, Jonassen had an outstanding WBBL 2023 season, emerging as Brisbane Heat’s top wicket-taker with 24 wickets, and was the joint third-highest wicket-taker in WPL 2024 with 11 wickets.
Flegler acknowledged Jonassen's misfortune in missing out on the World Cup squad but praised her resilience and form, indicating that she will be closely monitored ahead of Australia's home summer.
A successful title defence in the UAE would see Australia become the first team, men’s or women’s, to secure four consecutive T20 World Cup titles.