Why Has Grace Harris Been Excluded from the Women’s World Cup?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Australian all-rounder Grace Harris has been sidelined from the ICC Women’s World Cup due to a calf injury. Cricket Australia has moved swiftly to name Heather Graham as her replacement. This article explores Harris's journey and the implications of her absence for the Australian team.
Key Takeaways
- Grace Harris ruled out of World Cup due to injury.
- Heather Graham steps in as her replacement.
- Australia prepares for a warm-up match against England.
- Harris aims to rehabilitate and return for the WBBL.
- The Australian squad faces challenges with multiple injuries.
Bengaluru, Sep 23 (NationPress) Australian all-rounder Grace Harris has been officially excluded from the squad for the ICC Women’s World Cup due to a calf injury. In her place, Heather Graham has been appointed as the 32-year-old's replacement by Cricket Australia.
Harris had received her first-ever ODI World Cup selection following a series of outstanding performances for Australia in various formats recently. Her remarkable contributions to the national team, along with her success in franchise tournaments, paved her way into the World Cup lineup.
The Australian team recently wrapped up a three-match ODI series against India, where Harris played in the final match in Delhi after missing the first two games. This appearance marked her return to ODI cricket since March 2024, but she suffered a calf strain in the second innings while fielding.
She was included in the XI for the third ODI as a replacement for Annabel Sutherland, who was sidelined due to hip issues. Additionally, Phoebe Litchfield and Darcie Brown were also unable to participate in the final ODI due to minor injuries. Litchfield dealt with a quad injury, while Brown faced back spasms.
The Queensland all-rounder, who was part of the 2022 World Cup squad but did not make it to the playing XI, had aspirations to play in the tournament this time in India. As the Aussies prepare to face England in a warm-up match ahead of the global competition, Harris will be returning home for rehabilitation.
Importantly, the UP Warriorz all-rounder is set to compete with the Brisbane Heat in the Women’s Big Bash League for the 2025-26 season, commencing on November 9.
The Australian team is currently based in Bengaluru and is scheduled to play against England in a warm-up match on Sunday before commencing their World Cup journey against New Zealand on October 1 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
Australia’s revised squad for the ICC Women’s World Cup includes: Alyssa Healy (c), Tahlia McGrath (vc), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the implications of Grace Harris's injury on the Australian Women's cricket team. This unfortunate event not only affects the team's morale but also its strategic approach in the upcoming World Cup. As we support our athletes, we must acknowledge both their dedication and the unpredictable nature of sports. NationPress stands firmly with our national team as they prepare for this prestigious tournament.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Grace Harris's exclusion from the World Cup?
Grace Harris was ruled out of the ICC Women’s World Cup due to a calf injury sustained while fielding during an ODI match against India.
Who is replacing Grace Harris in the squad?
Heather Graham has been named as the replacement for Grace Harris in the Australian Women’s World Cup squad.
What is the schedule for Australia in the World Cup?
Australia will play a warm-up match against England before starting their World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 1.
What was Grace Harris's recent performance prior to her injury?
Grace Harris had been performing impressively for the Australian team and earned her first ODI World Cup call-up based on her outstanding contributions across formats.
When does the Women’s Big Bash League season start?
The Women’s Big Bash League for the 2025-26 season begins on November 9.
