New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) Australian cricket legend Meg Lanning is confident that young opener Phoebe Litchfield has the potential to excel beyond a competitive group of candidates and become the next captain for Australia's ODI team following Alyssa Healy.

Healy, who assumed the captaincy from Lanning after the two-time ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup champion retired from international cricket at the close of 2023, is now 35 years old and is gradually approaching the latter stages of her career.

Lanning elaborated on Australia's recent Cricket World Cup journey during a discussion with host Nikhil Uttamchandani on the latest episode of The ICC Review, acknowledging the impressive list of potential successors to Healy.

While current vice-captain Tahlia McGrath, world No.1 all-rounder Ash Gardner, and rising star Annabel Sutherland all demonstrate remarkable leadership skills, Lanning believes that Litchfield stands out and could eventually take over the captaincy when Healy decides to retire.

"I think all of those that you mentioned are certainly in the running," Lanning remarked.

"I'd include Phoebe Litchfield in that list because I think she possesses a very level-headed approach.

"She has already shown that she can come in and fit into the team seamlessly. I believe she has a solid temperament as well, making her a definite option for the role."

Despite having only 67 international appearances, Litchfield is no stranger to leadership — previously captaining the Sydney Thunder in the WBBL. Lanning feels that the 22-year-old’s experience and outlook could bring a fresh and dynamic perspective to the Australian squad.

"The great thing about the team is that there are various leaders who could step into that role once Healy decides to step aside," Lanning shared.

"It's exciting in some ways; whenever that transition occurs, it will introduce something new to the team, along with their unique approach to leadership, which could be wonderful for the group.

"So I am backing her (Litchfield)."

Lanning revealed that she has reached out to several former teammates after Australia’s heartbreaking semi-final defeat to India in the World Cup and intends to reconnect with players such as fast bowler Kim Garth and all-rounder Annabel Sutherland as the new WBBL season begins later this month.

The former captain emphasized that the players she has spoken with are still processing the disappointment of the loss, stating that a thorough review of their campaign may take some time.

"I've talked to a few of the girls, and they are obviously very disappointed with the outcome; that’s not what they intended when they went to India," Lanning expressed.

"They recognize that there are many strong teams now and that they gave it their all, but sometimes the results don’t align with expectations.

"There are always aspects to reflect on and consider for improvement. Not getting the desired outcome often prompts deeper introspection. I believe they'll take some time to reflect on it.

"However, they performed remarkably well throughout the tournament, even in the semi-final. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to secure victory, but that’s the nature of the game. They will have another opportunity to enhance their performance in the upcoming series."