Brisbane Heat left-arm pace bowler Lucy Hamilton has been selected in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad, with the experienced Darcie Brown a surprise omission.
Hamilton, who turned 20 earlier this month, will play in her first World Cup after making her international debut in all three formats in March.
Brown, who featured in Australia’s T20 World Cup win in 2023, was not named in the 15-player squad on Wednesday ahead of this year’s tournament, which will be hosted by England and Wales in June and July.
All-rounder Nicola Carey will play in her first T20 World Cup since 2020 after a golden summer which saw her return to the national side after a three-year absence.
The exclusion of right-arm quick Brown from the squad will be a major talking point.
“Darcie Brown was unlucky to miss out, but the decision was based on the conditions we’re expecting and the makeup of the side,” national team selector Shawn Flegler said.
“With at least six right-arm pace options in the mix and raw pace expected to be less effective, we opted to go with Lucy Hamilton, who offers something different as a left-arm quick.”
Heat all-rounder Grace Harris returns to the side after being left out of the recent West Indies tour.
“She’s a handy all-round option and someone who can take the game away from an opposition,” Flegler said.
“We’re pleased to welcome Annabel Sutherland back from an extended break as well. She’s fresh and ready to go and will play an important role throughout the tournament.”
Sophie Molineux will captain Australia for the first time at a World Cup in the wake of the recent retirement of legend Alyssa Healy.
“Sophie has already made her mark as captain and built a strong connection with the group over the last couple of tours, so we’re looking forward to seeing what this side can achieve under her leadership,” Flegler said.
“These squads are never easy to select but we’re confident with the balance and stability we’ve got across the group. It’s an experienced group and one we believe is capable of winning the World Cup.”
New Zealand are the defending T20 world champions.
Australia will play three warm-up matches against South Africa, starting on May 31, with all games to be played at Arundel Castle.
Australia squad for Women’s T20 World Cup
Sophie Molineux (captain), Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Nicola Carey, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham. Travelling reserve: Tahlia Wilson.
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