Duo sidelined after injuries in Adelaide T20I as Megan Schutt and Lucy Hamilton earn ODI call-ups ahead of crucial clash against India women’s national cricket team

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Australia have been dealt a significant injury setback ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, with senior allrounder Ellyse Perry and fast bowler Kim Garth ruled out due to quad strains. The duo sustained the injuries during the series-deciding third T20I at the Adelaide Oval, casting doubt over their availability for the upcoming one-off Test in Perth starting March 6.

Cricket Australia confirmed that both players will continue rehabilitation during the ODI series, with their fitness for the Perth Test to be assessed afterward. The timing is particularly crucial as the Test marks the final chapter of captain Alyssa Healy’s farewell tour and is expected to be a marquee fixture of the multi-format series.

Schutt strikes early, Hamilton earns maiden call-up

In response to the injuries, experienced seamer Megan Schutt was drafted into the XI for the first ODI in Brisbane, despite missing out on selection during the T20I leg. She made an immediate impact, removing India opener Pratika Rawal lbw with just the second delivery of the match, underlining her value in the 50-over format.

Nineteen-year-old left-arm quick Lucy Hamilton also earned a call-up to the ODI squad. Although uncapped at international level, Hamilton brings domestic experience, having featured for Brisbane Heat in the WBBL and representing Delhi Capitals in the recent WPL season. Her inclusion signals Australia’s intent to build depth in their pace department amid injury concerns.

Batting reshuffle as Voll replaces Perry

Georgia Voll, who impressed with 88 in Australia’s lone T20I victory, slotted into the No.3 position in place of Perry. Voll had appeared unlikely to feature in the opening ODI but seized her opportunity in the reshuffled batting order.

Legspinner Alana King and experienced allrounder Tahlia McGrath were also included in the ODI line-up after being overlooked for the T20I series, adding variety and balance to Australia’s bowling and middle-order options.

Healy begins farewell tour, Mooney takes gloves

Captain Alyssa Healy returned to the top of the order as she began her farewell international series, which will conclude with the Perth Test at the WACA. In a notable change, Healy will not keep wickets during the ODIs, with Beth Mooney stepping in as Australia’s full-time wicketkeeper.

Following a challenging T20I series that ended in a 2-1 defeat under stand-in leadership, Sophie Molineux has been named vice-captain for the ODI leg, as Australia aim to bounce back strongly against the reigning World Cup champions.

With key players sidelined and emerging talents stepping up, the Australia vs India ODI series promises high stakes and intense competition, especially with Test match fitness on the line for Perry and Garth.