Hobart, Feb 25 (NationPress) Australia's leading fast bowler, Megan Schutt, playfully asserted that her teammates can't easily shake her off, expressing her delight at rejoining the squad after being selected in the playing XI for the recent first ODI against India, due to injuries to Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth.

The seasoned Australian bowler only needed two deliveries to demonstrate her importance. After sitting out the entire T20I segment of the multi-format series, Schutt made a striking return in the opening ODI against India at Allan Border Field on Tuesday, taking a wicket with her very second ball, which set the stage for an impressive performance by Australia’s bowlers.

The 33-year-old bowler executed a classic inswinger, trapping opener Pratika Rawal lbw, showcasing her continued potency with the new ball. This was a bold statement from a player who had been left out of the ODI squad but reclaimed her position due to a last-minute injury adjustment.

“I keep joking with the team that they can’t get rid of me that easily. It feels great to be back with the squad and contributing. Making an impact with the new ball was my role... it’s wonderful to feel good behind the ball again,” Schutt shared with reporters at Hobart Airport on Wednesday.

“As an opening bowler, our goal is to take wickets early. In the Powerplay, it’s a high-risk, high-reward scenario with only two out, and I was fortunate to get the ball swinging and claim a wicket early on,” she added.

Schutt concluded with figures of 2-42 from nine overs, a performance of historical significance. This achievement moved her past Lisa Sthalekar into third place in Australia's all-time women's ODI wicket-takers list, now trailing only Cathryn Fitzpatrick (180 wickets) and Ellyse Perry (166).

Her inclusion in the playing XI was not guaranteed. Initially omitted from the ODI squad for the India series, Schutt remained part of the wider group but was passed over for the three T20Is in favor of fellow bowlers Kim Garth and Darcie Brown.

When the selectors announced the squads in January, national selector Shawn Flegler emphasized that Schutt's omission did not signal the end of her ODI career, primarily due to strategic considerations tailored for home conditions and to give Brown more exposure with her pace. However, Garth's quad injury opened the door for Schutt’s return.

While acknowledging the disappointment of missing the T20Is, Schutt noted that the rationale had been clearly explained.

“The extra pace (in Brown) was the main factor against the Indian side. I understand it’s disappointing to sit on the sidelines, but it’s part of the job to support your team and manage your emotions,” she explained.

“I had my moments with the coaching staff when I was informed. But beyond that, you move on; it’s part of the role, and you must seize the opportunity when it arises,” she added.

Australia arrived in Hobart on Wednesday and will practice at Bellerive Oval on Thursday before Friday’s second ODI. With the multi-format series tied at four points each, Schutt’s comeback could be crucial for the hosts as they aim to regain momentum.