The women’s international schedule will commence with the women’s ashes between Australia and England, following a lengthy hiatus. England has announced the schedule for the multi-format Women’s Ashes series, which will include Trent Bridge’s inaugural five-day Test match. In order to manage her burden, wicketkeeper-batswoman Alyssa Healy intends to bat down the order rather than as the opener in the upcoming crucial Test. This could cause some problems for the Australian team. If Healy bats down the order, Australia will be forced to introduce a new opening combination, which will be a time-consuming endeavor.
Since 2019, Healy has opened for Australia in the previous three Tests, a position she frequently held in the white-ball game. However, the vice captain is concerned about how wicketkeeping may influence her Test cricket performance. In her previous Test against England, she was dismissed after scoring a few runs in both innings by Katherine-Sciver Brunt, which is another source of frustration for her.
“I have given it considerable consideration. And it has been a topic of discussion for some time. In the most recent test, I raised my hand and volunteered to do it. It was my choice to bat first, and I figured it would be a good spot to bat. I likely underestimated the amount of labor I would have to complete in the field, as I was not accustomed to doing so. I thoroughly appreciated it, and if they want me to open, that’s fine with me. ESPN Cricinfo quoted Healy as saying, “But I’d gladly slide down to the middle and smash a Dukes ball around.”
Alyssa Healy is the only player in men’s or women’s international cricket who simultaneously opens the batting and keeps wicket.
When asked if she preferred to bat at No. 6 or No. 7, as she did in her Test debut, Healy responded that she now prefers to bat lower in the order.
It was difficult. I’m not attempting to make an excuse, but it was extremely difficult mentally to open and maintain. Knowing what the conditions may be like in England, the Dukes’ ball swings around for an extended period of time. The opportunities behind the wickets will be extremely crucial. Therefore, completing this task effectively will be my top priority. And wherever I am required to bowl, that will be fine,” she added.
Australia will play three Test matches in the next eight months, and a new opening pair is already in the works following Rachael Haynes’ retirement from international cricket. Alyssa Healy is cognizant that the decision will have a lasting influence, as Australia will play three Tests and a new opening pair will be formed.
Beth Mooney is anticipated to replace Haynes at the top of the batting order when the Test matches begin the multi-format Ashes series on June 22 at Trent Bridge. Mooney has prior experience batting at the top of the order. After a stellar start to her international white-ball career last summer, it is possible that rising star Phoebe Litchfield will make her Test debut as the opening batter.
India
