Brisbane, Feb 23 (NationPress) Australia is shifting its focus to the 50-over format, aiming to bounce back in the multi-format series against India. Retiring captain Alyssa Healy is set to be at the forefront of several changes for Tuesday's initial ODI in Brisbane.

After losing the T20I series 2–1, the host team is preparing to alter their lineup for the 50-over matches. Healy will take her place at the top of the order, stepping in for Georgia Voll, and is anticipated to open alongside regular partner Phoebe Litchfield. Additionally, leg-spinner Alana King is in line to make her series debut, likely replacing fellow wrist-spinner Georgia Wareham, while Grace Harris has been omitted from the ODI squad.

In a significant decision, Healy is not expected to take up wicketkeeping responsibilities during her farewell series. Instead, Beth Mooney will don the gloves, a choice made to ensure consistency after Mooney's performance in the T20Is and to prepare for Australia’s forthcoming tour of the Caribbean.

Healy, who possesses a world record of 275 dismissals as a wicketkeeper and has served as Australia’s primary glovewoman since 2014, last kept wickets at the conclusion of WBBL-11.

During a press conference on Monday at the Allan Border Field, Healy shared her thoughts on being away from the team during the T20I segment, stating, “It’s been a bit strange watching from the sidelines. I haven’t played many T20 series in recent seasons, and being away from the group for the past couple of weeks has felt odd, especially returning midway through a series.”

The 35-year-old will lead Australia in the three ODIs and the upcoming day-night Test in Perth before retiring from international cricket. She emphasized her commitment to the team's success over personal accolades, saying, “I’m just really excited to participate in what is a significant series... it’s not about going out in style, it’s about winning this series.”

Australia held a voluntary training session at Allan Border Field while selectors considered further adjustments. Vice-captain Tahlia McGrath, who was absent during the T20Is, is still in contention despite a lackluster ODI World Cup performance earlier in the cycle. Nicola Carey, who has been recalled after a three-year hiatus, is another potential addition to strengthen the lineup.

Sophie Molineux, who will lead the team across formats following this series, will serve as the deputy during the ODIs and the Test.

For Healy, the opening match in Brisbane carries additional sentimental value. Although she did not play in Sydney, her adopted home, the Queensland game represents a different kind of homecoming. Born on the Gold Coast, she anticipates a strong presence of family and friends.

“It’s fascinating how things have unfolded,” she remarked. “I didn’t get a chance in Sydney, but ironically, playing here in Queensland, where I have more family and friends, is truly special.”

“I think Uncle Ian (the Australian great Ian Healy) has been instrumental in bringing them all together.”