Georgia Wareham returns as Australia announces squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

After a lengthy injury layoff, leg-spinner Georgia Wareham was named to Australia’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa.

Following her one-day return for Victoria in the domestic competition last week, Wareham has been selected ahead of fellow leggie Amanda-Jade Wellington, who hasn’t played a T20 match since tearing her ACL in October 2021. These are the only adjustments Australia has made to the lineup that went to India for their most recent T20I match, aside from the return of regular skipper Meg Lanning to the format after a six-month absence.

“It’s always tough to narrow a squad down to just 15 players, but we’re confident we’ve picked a well-balanced side that’s well placed for the series against Pakistan and ready to challenge for a third consecutive T20 title,” national selector Shawn Flegler said.

“Seeing Meg and Georgia back in action for Victoria has been exciting. Both bring a wealth of experience to the group, which is always crucial during major tournaments.

All-rounder Ash Gardner is the other spin option in the anticipated team, with fellow leg-spinner Alana King appearing to be the preferred selection in the starting XI. Healy won’t play in the three upcoming ODIs against Pakistan at home, but she’ll be available for the bilateral T20I series against the same opposition and Australia’s defence of the T20 World Cup.

Australia squad: Meg Lanning (C), Alyssa Healy (VC, wk), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Grace Harris, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham