Brisbane, Feb 23 (NationPress) Australia's top wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy acknowledged that the Indian team showcased impressive skills to clinch the recent T20I series 2-1. However, she emphasized that the home side is ready to “throw a punch” at the Women in Blue in the upcoming three-match ODI series that kicks off on Tuesday.

Healy announced her retirement ahead of the ongoing home series against India, revealing that she plans to retire after leading the Australians in the one-off Test commencing on March 6.

Coming off a 2–1 T20I series defeat to India, which highlighted the visitors' increasing confidence and depth, Healy, who will participate in the final ODI series of her career, struck a tone that balanced respect with determination, underscoring the hosts' intention to respond effectively.

“They're playing some really good cricket. We're facing significant challenges right now, and they're brimming with confidence, as they should be. They have a prestigious trophy in their cabinet that they can be proud of, and they have every right to play the way they have,” Healy stated to reporters at The Gabba.

India's recent accomplishments, including their ODI World Cup victory and the hard-fought T20I series triumph on Australian soil, have altered the narrative of power dynamics between the two leading teams. Nevertheless, as the format shifts to 50 overs, Healy believes the contest resets.

“For us, it's now a challenge to retaliate and “throw the next punch” in this format, asserting that this is our territory, these are our conditions, and this is how we excel in the ODI format. We hope to go out there and achieve that,” she expressed.

The three-match ODI series beginning Tuesday provides Australia with an opportunity to reestablish their dominance in conditions they typically control. Acknowledging India’s credentials, Healy remarked that they are a side deserving of their reputation. “We recognize that they are a talented team; they are the world champions, and for the first time in a while, we have a chance to challenge them effectively. I’m eager for that,” she said.

Australia's recent T20I defeat has also been reframed internally as part of a broader transformation. The team that once faced backlash for losing a single match in a multi-game series is now navigating a generational shift and embracing it.

“Absolutely. Over the past five to six years, our squad has naturally transitioned. I recall the uproar when we lost a game in India. At one time, losing one match in a six or seven-game series caused an uproar. Now, reflecting on losing the first match of a series presents an opportunity for our side to analyze, review, and determine how we can improve and continue to challenge what is a formidable team,” Healy stated.

Cricket Australia has appointed Sophie Molineux as Healy’s successor, and the all-rounder took on her first captaincy role during the T20I series, which the home side lost 1-2. As Healy looks forward to the remainder of the series and beyond, her faith in the team's direction remains steadfast.

“I believe the future is in capable hands. I am excited to see what this team can achieve over the next 10 to 15 years. I have no doubt we will recover swiftly,” she concluded.

With India holding the momentum and pride at stake for Australia, the ODI series promises to be another exciting chapter in a rivalry that continues to elevate standards in women’s cricket.