Australia captain Alyssa Healy has confirmed she is fit for the historic women's Ashes Test at the MCG but admitted the final decision on her inclusion will rest with the selectors. Meanwhile, England captain Heather Knight has confirmed that Sophia Dunkley will return to the side as an extra batter, while Kate Cross has been ruled out due to injury.
Speaking at the captain’s press conference in her whites and baggy green, Healy indicated that her recovery from a foot injury has gone well. She successfully completed a rigorous training session on Tuesday and is optimistic about playing. However, the final decision will be made by selectors and medical staff on Wednesday evening.
"I'm good to go," Healy said. "The final XI hasn't been decided yet, but I'm here without a moon boot, which is a great sign." She added that while the medical staff have been supportive, the team’s best interests remain a priority.
Healy reported no major pain after training and is confident in her ability to complete the four-day Test without significant discomfort. Although there are uncertainties about how her foot will hold up, she is not on extensive pain medication and has received assurances that playing will not worsen her injury.
With Healy unable to keep wicket, Beth Mooney will take on the gloves, resulting in a reshuffled batting order. Mooney, who has opened in five of her seven Tests, will move down the order, leaving a decision to be made about Australia’s new opening combination. Healy is flexible about her batting position, and if she is unable to play, Georgia Voll could make her Test debut.
The MCG pitch has a green tinge, raising questions about team selection. Although traditionally favorable to seamers, spinners have played a key role in the Ashes so far and in Australia’s 2023 Test win. Australia is considering whether to stick with their dominant spin attack or adjust for the conditions.
England is facing a similar dilemma regarding their bowling attack. Knight confirmed Dunkley’s return as a seventh batter, meaning one bowler will miss out. England has yet to decide between an extra spinner or seamer for the final spot.
"We have 12 players in contention, and we're finalizing our last bowling option," Knight said. "Dunkley will come in, and we’ll decide on the final bowler after assessing the wicket again."
Kate Cross, despite training in recent days, has not recovered sufficiently to play. Knight praised her efforts, highlighting her leadership and contribution to the squad despite being unavailable for selection.
With both teams still deliberating their final lineups, the Ashes Test is set to begin under humid conditions, with the MCG pitch likely to play a key role in shaping team strategies.
Updated on 29th January, 2025 by MyFortune11 Team.