Australia’s preparations for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup have hit an early snag with the unfortunate news that star all-rounder Grace Harris has been ruled out of the tournament due to a calf injury. This setback comes at a crucial time for the defending champions as they aim for another title.
Harris sustained the calf strain while fielding during the third One Day International against India in Delhi last Saturday. Interestingly, she had only played one game in that series, having previously come in as a replacement for Annabel Sutherland, who was also sidelined with hip soreness.
In response to Harris’s withdrawal, Cricket Australia has swiftly called up Western Australia’s Heather Graham to join the squad. The 28-year-old seam-bowling all-rounder brings international experience, having represented Australia in one ODI and five T20Is, with her last appearance dating back to September 2024 against New Zealand. Across these matches, she has successfully claimed nine wickets.
While Grace Harris might not have been a guaranteed starter in Australia’s formidable XI, her absence undoubtedly deepens the team’s injury woes. Compounding the situation, batter Phoebe Litchfield missed the final two ODIs against India due to a quad issue, and pacer Darcie Brown was forced out of the same series battling back spasms. Additionally, spinner Sophie Molineux remains unavailable as she continues her recovery journey from a knee injury.
Despite these challenges, the defending champions remain focused on clinching their record-extending eighth World Cup title. Their campaign is set to kick off against New Zealand on October 1, following a vital warm-up match against England on September 28 in Guwahati.
The tournament itself is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka and will commence on September 30, with the opening fixture featuring a clash between the host nations, India and Sri Lanka, also in Guwahati.