Alyssa Healy has been sidelined from Australia’s forthcoming T20 series against New Zealand as she recovers from a foot injury sustained during the Ashes series. The 34-year-old wicketkeeper missed all three T20 matches against England but was cleared to play in the subsequent red-ball fixture. Healy initially injured her plantar fascia before the Ashes but played in the first three ODIs. However, she later experienced mid-foot soreness, prompting her to use a moon boot while trying to regain fitness for the historic Test match at the MCG.
Healy was not included in Australia’s 14-player squad for the T20 series, which will take place between 21 and 26 March against the reigning World T20 champions. This absence coincides with the news that her husband, Mitchell Starc, will also be missing from the ODI series against Sri Lanka for personal reasons.
In her place, Victorian keeper Nicole Faltum has been selected for her debut in the national team. Faltum’s credentials include participation in the recent eight editions of the WBBL and leading the Governor-General’s XI against England earlier this year, indicating her leadership skills.
Tahlia McGrath has been appointed captain for the series, with Ashleigh Gardner serving as vice-captain. Cricket Australia’s head of performance, Shawn Flegler, expressed excitement over Faltum’s inclusion, citing her consistent performance and potential as a strong backup to Beth Mooney, who will don the keeping gloves during the series.
Flegler also noted the importance of looking toward the future and fostering young talent, suggesting that Faltum may have a long career representing Australia. Healy is focused on her rehabilitation with the hope of being fit for the upcoming ODI World Cup later this year. The matches against New Zealand will serve as a significant opportunity for the team to build on the strong performances showcased during the Ashes.
Additionally, Healy has withdrawn from the Women’s Premier League and has remained non-committal about her international cricket future following the ODI World Cup.
The Australian squad for the New Zealand tour consists of: Darcie Brown, Nicole Faltum, Ashleigh Gardner (VC), Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath (C), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, and Georgia Wareham.