2 uncapped players in Australia Women's World Cup squad

Australia quite similar to Men’s cricket is undoubtedly the powerhouse in Women’s cricket as well. Out of 10 ICC Women’s World Cups, Australia have won 6 and came out second best twice. They have played eight World Cup finals out of the ten held till date. ICC Women’s World Cup 2017 will begin on the 24th of June in England.

Australia, England and New Zealand are currently bossing the Women’s cricket in the mega-event. Except the three, only India and West Indies have managed to go as far as the final. But Australia won comprehensively on both the occasions. Australia while announcing the squad for the World Cup 2017 has included two new names in the team. 19-year old Belinda Vakarewa and 32-year-old Sarah Aley are a part of the team that will aim to defend their crown.

Selector speaks

National selector Shawn Fledger feels this World Cup will be one of the most narrowly-contested ones. “This is going to be one of the most tightly contested World Cups in recent times and we have chosen 15 players that we believe are capable of leading Australia to victory,” he said.

Regarding his new picks, Fledger stated: “Belinda Vakarewa is an exciting young talent who has made the most of her opportunities that have come her way with the Shooting Stars and more recently during the three-week camp held in Brisbane. She adds some extra firepower with her pace and we’re excited to see what she can do. Sarah Aley will also add some extra depth to our bowling attack and brings an incredible amount of experience to the group which is invaluable in a tournament like this.”

“Ashleigh Gardner is another young player that has really impressed and alongside Kristen Beams, Jess Jonassen and Amanda-Jade Wellington, will form a strong spin attack that provides a range of options with the ball. We’re pleased to have Rachael Haynes back in the squad after suffering an ankle injury earlier in the year and she too brings a wealth of experience having played in World Cups and in English conditions. This is an incredibly exciting time for this team, with the chance to stake their claim as one of the most successful sporting teams in Australian sport,” Fledger further added.

Australia will begin their campaign against the team they defeated in last year’s final. They will take on West Indies on the 26th of June at the County Ground in Taunton.