Australian pacer eyes return after 16-month absence following shoulder injury during 2024 T20 World Cup

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Australian fast bowler Tayla Vlaeminck is set to make a highly anticipated return to competitive cricket after a lengthy injury recovery. The 27-year-old has been named in the Green squad for the upcoming Green vs Gold three-day match in Sydney, marking her first appearance in nearly 16 months.

Vlaeminck has been sidelined since dislocating her right shoulder during the opening match of the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Initially targeting a comeback during the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season, her return was delayed due to a longer-than-expected rehabilitation process.

Now fully fit, Vlaeminck is eager to get back on the field. Speaking ahead of the 2026-27 domestic season, she shared her excitement about returning to action. She acknowledged the challenges of long-term rehab, noting that minor setbacks are common, but expressed confidence in her current fitness and readiness.

The upcoming three-day fixture will feature a mix of established and emerging domestic players, offering a platform to prepare for the demands of international cricket. Vlaeminck will play under the captaincy of allrounder Charli Knott in the Green squad, while the Gold team will be led by Katie Mack, recently named New South Wales’ Player of the Year.

Vlaeminck’s career has been significantly impacted by injuries. In addition to multiple shoulder dislocations, she has dealt with stress fractures in her foot and underwent two ACL reconstructions even before making her international debut in 2018. Despite her talent and pace, she has featured in only 29 matches across formats for Australia so far.

Selectors have excluded players currently involved in the West Indies tour from this fixture. Notably, Rachel Trenaman, who was recently part of the squad against India, will also feature for the Green team. Meanwhile, fast bowler Maitlan Brown misses out after signing a county contract with Surrey.

National selector Shawn Flegler emphasized the importance of such fixtures, stating that the three-day format plays a crucial role in preparing players for international cricket while supporting the growth of the Australia A pathway.

Vlaeminck’s return will be closely watched as she looks to overcome her injury struggles and re-establish herself in Australia’s bowling lineup.