Australia’s Healy Confident in Team’s Versatility for ICC Women’s 2025 World Cup

Australian captain Alyssa Healy is confident her team will navigate the various challenges presented by their rivals in the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup in the Indian subcontinent, thanks to the depth and strength of her squad.

The seven-time World Cup champions are gearing up to defend their title in the eight-team tournament, scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2.

“I’m looking forward to the tournament. The cricket conditions will certainly pose different challenges to our group, but we’re well-prepared,” Healy told the ICC. “We have such depth across the board that we’re ready to handle any conditions. I’m really excited about the strength of our team,” added the 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batter.

Australia has announced a 15-member squad for the event, which includes the return of left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux after a prolonged injury absence.

The spin duo of Sophie Molineux and Georgia Wareham will play a crucial role in Australia’s quest to defend their title, which they won in New Zealand in 2022.

“It’s a wonderful place to play cricket, and touring there is a unique experience. The culture is different, but the passion for cricket in India is unmatched. It’s a wonderful destination for a cricketer,” Healy remarked.

As part of their preparation, Australia will compete in a three-match ODI series against India prior to the World Cup.

Healy emphasized the significance of winning consecutive World Cup titles, a milestone her team is eager to achieve.

“Winning back-to-back World Cups is something we definitely aspire to. It’s a pinnacle event in our sport, and we aim to perform consistently throughout,” Healy stated.

Reflecting on past experiences, she added, “We fell short in the UAE during the 2024 T20 World Cup due to one bad day. We know we need everything to align in our favor, and I believe we’re in a strong position to make that happen. It would be incredibly special for the team if we succeeded.”

Healy’s squad includes 10 players who were part of the previous World Cup edition, featuring seasoned cricketers like Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath, who bring valuable experience.

Australia will kick off its campaign against trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand in Indore on October 1.