Alyssa Healy of Australia Set to Return as Specialist Batter for ODI Series Against New Zealand
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New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Australia captain Alyssa Healy has confirmed her participation as a specialist batter in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, signaling her comeback from a knee injury that prematurely ended her WBBL season.
The prominent opener, who was absent during Australia’s 3-0 ODI series triumph over India, is expected to play in the first match in New Zealand on December 19. However, Healy will not take on the wicketkeeping role, as her left knee injury restricts her ability to crouch for prolonged durations.
Beth Mooney will assume the wicketkeeping responsibilities, allowing Healy to concentrate on her batting and fielding at first slip.
During a discussion on the Willow Talk Podcast, Healy elaborated on her choice. “I’m eager to play and will do everything possible to get on the field, (but) I won’t be keeping. That’s the state of my knee, and the issue lies in getting down into those positions,” she mentioned.
The 34-year-old expressed her enthusiasm to return to the field but recognized the need to manage expectations regarding her fielding abilities.
“I’m apprehensive about the idea because I tend to overestimate my fielding skills. I believe I’m quite good, but I’m not. I’m not Beth Mooney, and I’m aware of that, so I have to position myself away from critical areas,” Healy quipped.
Despite her challenges, Healy is resolute about playing, especially with limited chances for game time before the eagerly awaited Ashes series starting next month in Sydney.
Healy’s absence as wicketkeeper during the India series allowed emerging talent Georgia Voll to excel. Voll scored a remarkable century in the second ODI and formed a strong partnership with Phoebe Litchfield at the top of the order. Although Voll sustained a minor knee injury in the third match, reports indicate she is fit and prepared for the New Zealand series.
Australia’s remarkable squad depth reassures Healy as she continues her recovery. “We have incredible depth within our squad, so if something goes awry and I need an extra day off, we have the coverage,” she stated.
Reflecting on her recent injury history, including a foot issue that ended her participation in the T20 World Cup, Healy admitted to feeling some anxiety regarding her body’s resilience late in her career.
“I think there’s a level of stress involved, but I’m also very fortunate to be able to perform multiple roles for the team,” she remarked. “As my career progresses, I want to continue playing as much cricket as possible. Unfortunately, my body is saying ‘no.’”
