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Tag: Alyssa Healy

  • Mitchell Starc’s wife demands Rohit Sharma’s signing in BBL

    Mitchell Starc’s wife demands Rohit Sharma’s signing in BBL

    Australia Women star and Mitchell Starc’s wife Alyssa Healy has expressed her desire to see Indian captain Rohit Sharma participate in the Big Bash League (BBL). Alyssa Healy believes that Rohit Sharma’s presence would not only elevate the BBL’s profile but also inspire young cricketers in Australia.

    However, Healy acknowledged that the idea might seem far-fetched, especially considering Rohit’s present career in Indian cricket and BCCI’s rule. But the Australia Women captain emphasized that having such a prolific batter in the Big Bash League would work wonders for the tournament, boosting fan engagement and offering invaluable insights to local talents.

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    Alyssa Healy dreams of Rohit Sharma lighting up BBL

    She also feels like MS Dhoni; Rohit may choose the path to spend his entire career in India. Notably, Dhoni retired from international cricket but continued to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite not playing domestic cricket for his state, Jharkhand.

    However, until the legendary wicketkeeper batter retires from the IPL, he can’t feature in the overseas league due to the BCCI’s strict diktat. Well, Healy remains hopeful of Indian cricket superstars appearing in the BBL in the future to at least share their knowledge and experience with the Australian kids.

    Also Read: Rohit Sharma ordered to play in England Test series as a captain

    Presence of someone like Rohit Sharma would only do wonders for our competition: Alyssa Healy

    Alyssa Healy said on Willow Podcast, “Yeah, I hope one day we can attract some of these guys. I mean, imagine someone like Rohit Sharma coming down to play BBL. Maybe he’s finished his, if ever; he might be like MS Dhoni, playing forever over in India. But imagine some of these guys coming down.

    I mean, the amount of support that they get down here already, it would only do wonders for our competition. So maybe one day. Wonders for our competition in every regard, i.e., taking a spot of a local player? Or would you view that as you’re really helping those young players on that list evolve? I think if they’re willing to give, like, share information, I think it’ll be highly useful.”

    BCCI’s policy blocks Indian stars from participating in overseas franchise leagues

    Notably, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) firm stance against allowing Indian players to participate in overseas T20 leagues has been a hot topic in global cricket.

    While other cricket boards encourage their stars to gain experience worldwide, the BCCI remains adamant about preserving the exclusivity and brand value of the IPL and minimizing potential burnout and injury risks.

    The BCCI ensures Indian cricketers remain fully available for domestic tournaments and international commitments by restricting their participation in the overseas league. For this, the BCCI has been facing heat from the former cricketers across the world.

    Notably, Rohit has been going through a rough phase in the ongoing IPL 2025, where he is currently playing for the Mumbai Indians. The Indian skipper has only scored 21 runs in three matches so far, making fans wonder if his time is up in the shorter format of the game.

    Also Read: WPL 2025: Alyssa Healy kicks aside BCCI money!! Quits UP Warriorz captaincy days before the tournament



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  • UP Warriorz announce Alyssa Healy’s replacement for WPL 2025

    UP Warriorz announce Alyssa Healy’s replacement for WPL 2025

    UP Warriorz have brought in West Indies all-rounder Chinelle Henry as a replacement for Alyssa Healy in the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025.

    Alyssa Healy out of WPL 2025 due to injury

    Healy, who was set to lead the team, has been forced to withdraw due to a stress reaction in her right foot, an injury that follows previous plantar fascia ruptures.

    With Healy sidelined, the franchise is yet to finalize its new captain. Leading candidates for the role include Sri Lankan veteran Chamari Athapaththu, Australian all-rounder Tahlia McGrath, and Indian star Deepti Sharma. Meanwhile, Uma Chetry is expected to step in as the team’s wicketkeeper.

    Also READ: Women’s Premier League: Mumbai Indians appoints new assistant coach for the WPL 2025

    UP Warriorz acquire the replacement player for INR 30 lakh

    Henry, an experienced T20 player for the West Indies, has featured in 62 T20Is, accumulating 473 runs and taking 22 wickets. The Warriorz secured her services for INR 30 lakh, adding depth to their squad ahead of the season opener.

    UP Warriorz will kick off their WPL 2025 campaign on February 16 at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, facing Gujarat Giants in what promises to be an exciting contest.

    Also READ: Women’s Premier League – Parthiv Patel and Veda Krishnamurthy predict the potential winner of WPL 2025

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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  • Big blow for UP Warriorz as captain Alyssa Healy pulls herself out of WPL 2025

    Big blow for UP Warriorz as captain Alyssa Healy pulls herself out of WPL 2025

    Australia and UP Warriorz captain Alyssa Healy has officially withdrawn from the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 due to a stress injury in her right foot. The star wicketkeeper-batter has been struggling with injuries over the past year, and this latest setback raises concerns about her long-term playing career.

    The upcoming third edition of the WPL will be played across four cities – Vadodara, Lucknow, Bengaluru, and Mumbai—from February 14 to March 15. However, Healy, who led the UP Warriorz in the first two seasons, will not be a part of the tournament this time around. Her absence is a major blow to the team, considering her vast experience and leadership skills.

    Alyssa Healy’s injury struggles: A timeline of setbacks

    Healy’s injury issues date back to October 2024, when she suffered a torn plantar fascia during the T20 World Cup. The foot injury forced her to miss a couple of crucial games, including Australia’s semifinal clash against South Africa. Following this, she endured a knee injury, which kept her out of a significant portion of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and the home ODI series against India.

    When Australia toured New Zealand for an ODI series, Healy played but was limited to a batting-only role to ensure she was fit for the Ashes ODIs. During the one-off Ashes Test, she once again played as a specialist batter, handing over wicketkeeping duties to Beth Mooney. While she returned to her wicketkeeping role in the Ashes ODIs, she had already missed the T20I series and several key fixtures earlier in the season. Now, with a recurring stress injury in her right foot, Healy has been ruled out of the WPL 2025, extending her injury layoff even further.

    Also READ: Shreyanka Patil reveals what she’d love to steal from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Smriti Mandhana

    UP Warriorz react to Healy’s withdrawal from WPL 2025

    The Warriorz franchise officially confirmed Healy’s absence on their social media handle on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging the loss of their captain. Their statement read:

    “Captain @ahealy77 has opted out of the upcoming #TATAWPL due to a foot injury. While she won’t be donning the Yellow and Purple this season, she’ll always be a Warrior. The #WarriorzSena will miss her, but we know she’ll be cheering from afar. Wishing you a speedy recovery!” 

    This announcement comes as a significant setback for the UP Warriorz, who heavily relied on Healy’s leadership. Over the past two seasons, she played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s strategy and guiding them through intense WPL campaigns.

    A big loss for Women’s Premier League

    Healy’s withdrawal from the WPL 2025 comes just days after another star cricketer, New Zealand’s Sophie Devine, announced an indefinite break from domestic cricket. Losing two senior international players significantly impacts the overall star power of the league, as both Healy and Devine have been crucial figures in women’s franchise cricket.

    For the Warriorz, Healy’s absence will not only affect their batting lineup but also their strategic depth and leadership dynamics. The team will now have to rely on alternative leadership options while hoping for a strong replacement signing. As the WPL 2025 nears, all eyes will be on the Warriorz’ next move – who will replace Healy, and more importantly, who will be entrusted with the captaincy

    Also READ: Women’s Premier League: Complete schedule for WPL 2025; Royal Challengers Bengaluru will battle Gujarat Giants in the opener

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.



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  • Smriti Mandhana on brink of history; set to claim No.1 spot in ICC T20I, ODI Rankings

    Smriti Mandhana on brink of history; set to claim No.1 spot in ICC T20I, ODI Rankings

    Indian women’s cricket team batter Smriti Mandhana is inching closer to the top spot in both the ICC Women’s T20I Batter Rankings and ICC Women’s ODI Batter Rankings after her standout performances in the ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies.

    In the latest updated rankings, Smriti Mandhana is currently ranked second in both the ICC Women’s T20I Batter Rankings and the ICC Women’s ODI Batter Rankings, thanks to her exceptional form with the bat. Her latest ODI rating stands at 739, just 34 points behind leader Laura Wolvaardt (773).

    Smriti Mandhana moves closer to No.1 Ranking in both T20I and ODI formats

    The 28-year-old left-hander has a great opportunity to surpass Laura Wolvaardt this week, as India still has two more ODI games to play against the West Indies Women at home. The Indian women’s cricket team is currently playing West Indies in the second ODI at Vadodara International Cricket Stadium, and the opener Mandhana has already made 25*.

    Read Also: Jasprit Bumrah faces allegations of suspect bowling action ahead of Boxing Day Test

    On the other hand, in the latest ICC Women’s T20I Batter Rankings, Smriti Mandhana’s 753 rating is only 4 points shy of Beth Mooney’s 757. She scored 62 off 41 balls and 77 off 47 balls, completing a hat trick of half-centuries against the West Indies in the recent T20I series at home.

    Mandhana’s stellar form continued in the ongoing three-match ODI series, where she played a remarkable knock of 91 runs off 102 balls in the opening match in Vadodara, which was her fifth consecutive score of 50+ in international cricket.

    Meanwhile, West Indies captain Hayley Matthews has showcased her brilliance with the bat in the ongoing India series, smashing an unbeaten 85* off 47 balls and a quick-fire 22 off 17 balls in the recent two-match T20I series.

    Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, and Alyssa Healy climb ICC Women’s Rankings after solid performances

    Her impressive performance has propelled Hayley Matthews to equal third in the ICC Women’s T20I Batting Rankings, tied with Tahlia McGrath, both holding a rating of 748. Since the ICC Women’s Championship actions are underway across the world, the bottom half of the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings has seen some changes.

    India Women captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s 34 in the first ODI against the West Indies helped her move up three spots, placing alongside Tammy Beaumont at the 10th spot, as they both have a rating of 631.

    Australia’s Alyssa Healy also climbed up two spots, moving to eighth place with a rating of 640, after scoring 39 and 34 against New Zealand. On the other hand, Annabel Sutherland made a significant rise in the ICC Women’s ODI Batter Rankings, jumping 11 spots to 18th with a rating of 563.

    Read Also: “These youngsters are…”: Rohit Sharma’s bold verdict on Pant, Gill, Jaiswal’s struggles in Australia

    Annabel Sutherland’s all-round brilliance pushes her up in ICC Women’s Rankings

    Sutherland’s 105* and 42, followed by a 3/39 in the third ODI, also saw her climb two spots to 7th in the ICC Women’s All-Rounder Rankings, surpassing Sophie Devine and Chamari Athapaththu. In the latest ICC Women’s bowling rankings, emerging talents made significant progress.

    Australia’s Alana King and Kim Garth climbed up the rankings, with King moving up two spots to 12th and Garth rising four places to 13th. Annabel Sutherland’s performances also saw her jump three spots to 17th.

    New Zealand’s Melie Kerr made a notable rise to 11th with 572 points. India’s Renuka Singh, after her standout performance of 5/29 in the first ODI, helped her to move up six places to 20th with 497 points in the updated ICC Women’s ODI bowling rankings.

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  • Clinical Australia beat Pakistan to register a commanding win in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    Clinical Australia beat Pakistan to register a commanding win in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    Australia continued their dominant run in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 by defeating Pakistan by nine wickets in a one-sided affair at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday (October 11). With a clinical performance both with the ball and bat, Australia sealed the win with 54 balls to spare. Ashleigh Gardner was the standout performer, earning the Player of the Match award for her all-round efforts, particularly her four-wicket haul.

    Pakistan’s struggles with the bat

    Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, managing to post only 82 runs in 19.5 overs. Stand-in captain Muneeba Ali, along with Sidra Amin, attempted to give Pakistan a steady start but struggled to break free from Australia’s disciplined bowling. Key batters like Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz tried to resist, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Gardner’s remarkable bowling, claiming 4 for 21, dismantled Pakistan’s middle and lower order, while Annabel Sutherland and Georgia Wareham contributed with crucial breakthroughs. The only significant resistance came from Riaz, who top-scored with 26 off 32 deliveries. Pakistan’s inability to accelerate left them with a modest total that proved insufficient against a strong Australian side. Megan Schutt, Sophie Molineux and Georgia Wareham also impress in the bowling department.

    Australia’s comfortable chase

    Chasing a small target of 83, Australia cruised to victory, reaching 83/1 in just 11 overs. Beth Mooney and Alyssa Healy got Australia off to a solid start, with Healy scoring a brisk 37 off 23 balls before retiring hurt. Mooney contributed 15 off 15 balls before falling to Sadia Iqbal. Ellyse Perry (22*) and Ashleigh Gardner (7*) comfortably guided Australia home, with Perry playing an anchor role to see the team through. With such a dominant performance, Australia solidified their position at the top of the group.

    Also WATCH: West Indies’ Deandra Dottin finishes off in style against Bangladesh at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    Ashleigh Gardner’s all-round brilliance

    Gardner’s all-round performance was the highlight of the match. Her four wickets in just four overs effectively dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup. Gardner’s ability to extract spin and vary her pace made it difficult for the Pakistan batters to find any rhythm. She struck at crucial moments, breaking Pakistan’s momentum and ensuring they could never settle into a partnership. Gardner’s wickets included key batters like Iram Javed and Tuba Hassan, and her spell crippled Pakistan’s middle order, making it difficult for them to post a competitive total. Adding to her bowling heroics, Gardner contributed with a quickfire 7* off 5 balls in the chase, ensuring Australia wrapped up the game swiftly.

    Also READ: Karishma Ramharack sizzles in West Indies’ commanding win over Bangladesh in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.



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  • AU-W vs NZ-W, 1st T20I: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Australia vs New Zealand

    AU-W vs NZ-W, 1st T20I: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Australia vs New Zealand

    The Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay will set the stage for the opening clash of the New Zealand Women’s tour of Australia 2024. The match kicks off at 08:10 am GMT.

    Both teams are stacked with talent and will be eager to make a strong start to the series. Australia, led by the experienced Alyssa Healy, boasts a formidable batting lineup featuring Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, and Ashleigh Gardner. Their bowling attack, led by Megan Schutt and Sophie Molineux, is equally impressive.

    New Zealand, captained by the dynamic Sophie Devine, will be looking to upset the hosts. Their batting lineup, anchored by Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer, has the potential to score big runs. The bowling attack, led by Amelia Kerr and Hannah Rowe, is also capable of making significant breakthroughs.

    This promises to be a thrilling contest between two evenly matched teams. The outcome of the match could set the tone for the rest of the series.

    New Zealand Women’s tour of Australia 2024: AU-W vs NZ-W

    • Date and Time: September 19: 08:10 am GMT / 06:10 pm local/ 01:40 pm IST
    • Venue: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay

    Great Barrier Reef Arena Pitch Report

    The Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay is known for its typically flat and fast-paced pitches. Given the time of year, we can expect the pitch to be slightly dry and offer some bounce. There might be a bit of carry for the fast bowlers, making it challenging for the batters to play shots early on. However, the pitch is likely to wear down as the match progresses, offering more assistance to the spinners.

    • Pace: The pitch is expected to favour fast bowlers, especially those who can generate good pace and bounce.
    • Spin: As the match progresses, spinners could find it easier to extract turn and bounce.
    • Batting: Batters will need to be cautious against the pace and bounce early on. Once the pitch starts to wear, they can look to score runs.

    Overall, the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay promises to be a good batting wicket, but the early stages of the match could be challenging for the batters.

    AU-W vs NZ-W Dream11 Prediction Picks:

    • Wicketkeepers: Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney
    • Batters: Suzie Bates, Tahlia McGrath
    • All-rounders: Ellyse Perry, Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner
    • Bowlers: Megan Schutt, Georgia Wareham

    AU-W vs NZ-W Dream11 Prediction Captain, and Vice-Captain:

    Choice 1: Ellyse Perry (c), Amelia Kerr (vc)
    Choice 2: Alyssa Healy (c), Sophie Devine (vc)

    Also READ: AUS-W vs NZ-W 2024: Australia’s best XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    AU-W vs NZ-W Dream11 Prediction Backups:

    Fran Jonas, Grace Harris, Lea Tahuhu, Sophie Molineux

    AU-W vs NZ-W Dream11 Team for today’s match (September 19, 08:10 am GMT):

    (Screengrab: Dream11)

    Squads:

    Australia Women: Alyssa Healy(w/c), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Phoebe Litchfield, Grace Harris, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux, Tayla Vlaeminck, Megan Schutt, Kim Garth, Alana King, Darcie Brown

    New Zealand Women: Sophie Devine(c), Suzie Bates, Isabella Gaze(w), Georgia Plimmer, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu, Rosemary Mair, Fran Jonas, Eden Carson, Molly Penfold, Amelia Kerr, Leigh Kasperek

    Also READ: Australia vs New Zealand, Women’s T20I series: Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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  • Alyssa Healy provides hints of Jess Jonassen’s return amid ace spinner’s exit from Australia’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

    Alyssa Healy provides hints of Jess Jonassen’s return amid ace spinner’s exit from Australia’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

    Australia have recently unveiled their squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to be held in the UAE. The announcement has brought considerable attention, especially due to the notable absence of veteran spinner Jess Jonassen from the 15-player roster.

    Veteran spinner Jess Jonassen omitted from T20 World Cup squad

    Jonassen, a stalwart of the Australian cricket team with 105 T20I appearances to her name, has been left out of the World Cup squad. This marks the first time Jonassen has been omitted from a World Cup squad when she has been available. Her exclusion is particularly surprising given her extensive experience and the tournament’s significance. The decision follows her recent omission from the squad touring Bangladesh earlier this year, with Australia’s spin department now featuring Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, and Ashleigh Gardner.

    Alyssa Healy provides update on Jonassen’s Future

    Australia captain Alyssa Healy expressed strong optimism about Jonassen’s future in international cricket, despite her omission from the T20 World Cup squad. Healy highlighted that Jonassen’s career has seen a dynamic progression, noting that she has experienced periods both in and out of the squad over the past five to six years.

    Healy compared Jonassen’s journey to that of Sophie Molineux, indicating a competitive back-and-forth between the two spinners. Healy’s statement underscores her belief that Jonassen’s exclusion from the World Cup squad does not close the door on her future opportunities with the team. Instead, she suggests that Jonassen’s career path remains open, and there remains a chance for her to rejoin the squad in upcoming fixtures.

    “Hundred per cent, the path’s still there, the door is still wide open. You look at her career and how it’s progressed, particularly over the past five or six years, she’s been in the squad, out of the squad, her and Sophie Molineux have sort of [gone] tit-for-tat along the way,” said Australia captain Alyssa Healy as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    Also READ: Australia unveil squad for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024; no place for Jess Jonassen

    Healy expresses her disappointment

    In a more personal reflection, Healy shared her disappointment regarding Jonassen’s exclusion from the World Cup squad. Having played extensively with Jonassen, Healy is well-acquainted with her ability to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to the team in crucial moments. Healy’s statement reveals her belief in Jonassen’s potential and her value to the Australian team. She remains confident that Jonassen will continue to be a key player for Australia, noting that injuries and other variables could present opportunities for her to return. Healy’s comments convey a sense of hope and assurance that Jonassen will remain a vital part of the squad’s plans moving forward, despite her current absence.

    “I’m disappointed for Jono myself. I have played a lot of cricket with her over the years and know exactly what she can contribute to the Australian team in big tournaments and how clutch she can be. I still see a big future for her in the Aussie side, there’s always a niggle or whatnot around [during] the summer, and she’ll still be around this summer no doubt,” she added.

    Also READ: Pakistan announces squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, names new captain

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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  • BD-W vs AU-W, 1st ODI: Shere Bangla National Stadium Pitch Report, Dhaka Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records | Bangladesh Women vs Australia Women 2024

    BD-W vs AU-W, 1st ODI: Shere Bangla National Stadium Pitch Report, Dhaka Weather Forecast, ODI Stats & Records | Bangladesh Women vs Australia Women 2024

    Bangladesh are gearing up to welcome Australia for the inaugural One Day International (ODI) of their highly anticipated three-match series, scheduled to commence on March 21. The stage is set at the iconic Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, where cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating an exhilarating contest between the two cricketing powerhouses.

    The hosts, Bangladesh, enter the series fresh off the back of a closely contested battle against South Africa in the fifty-over format back in December. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Bangladesh succumbed to a 2-1 series defeat against the Proteas, making them keen to turn the tide in their favor against the visiting Australian side.

    On the flip side, Australia arrive in Bangladesh boasting confidence following their recent triumph over South Africa in their own backyard. The Australian women’s team secured victory in their previous ODI series against the Proteas in January, clinching the battle with a 2-1 win. Buoyed by their success, the Australians are determined to maintain their winning momentum as they take on Bangladesh in what promises to be an enthralling series.

    ODI Stats and Records at Shere Bangla National Stadium:

    • Total matches: 133
    • Matches won batting first: 59
    • Matches won bowling first: 70
    • Average 1st Inns scores: 220
    • Average 2nd Inns scores: 190
    • Highest total recorded: 370/4 (50 Ov) by India vs Bangladesh
    • Lowest total recorded: 58/10 (17.4 Ov) by Bangladesh vs India
    • Highest score chased: 330/4 (47.5 Ov) by India vs Pakistan
    • Lowest score defended: 105/10 (25.3 Ov) by India vs Bangladesh

    Shere Bangla National Stadium Pitch Report:

    Traditionally, the track at Shere Bangla National Stadium tends to offer significant assistance to spin bowlers. Batters need to maintain vigilance and concentration, especially when looking to accumulate runs. Choosing to bat first upon winning the toss is commonly perceived as the strategic move to enhance one’s chances of success at this venue.

    Also READ: Bangladesh vs Australia 2024, Women’s ODI series: Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Dhaka Weather forecast:

    The weather forecast for Dhaka anticipates predominantly cloudy skies with a minimal 5% chance of rainfall. Temperatures are forecasted to remain at approximately 27 degrees Celsius, accompanied by humidity levels of around 58%. Furthermore, a mild breeze, traveling at a speed of 8 kmph, is expected to persist throughout the match.

    BD-W vs AU-W, Probable Playing XIs:

    Bangladesh Women: Nigar Sultana (c & wk), Murshida Khatun, Fargana Hoque, , Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Marufa Akter, Sultana Khatun, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan

    Australia Women: Alyssa Healy (c & wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Grace Harris, Tahlia McGrath, Ashleigh Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Kim Garth

    Also WATCH: Smriti Mandhana & Co. receive Guard of Honour from RCB men’s team at their Unbox Event

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  • WPL 2024: Fans in delight as Shah Rukh Khan and other Bollywood celebrities lights up the opening ceremony

    WPL 2024: Fans in delight as Shah Rukh Khan and other Bollywood celebrities lights up the opening ceremony

    The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 commenced with a grand opening ceremony at Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday (February 23), marking the beginning of a highly anticipated tournament. A fusion of Bollywood glitz and cricketing prowess unfolded, as the event showcased the convergence of talent, glamour, and excitement.

    WPL 2024 opening ceremony: Captains and Bollywood royalty

    The ceremony started with a bang as the five team captains – Beth Mooney, Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning, Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur – graced the stage. Their arrival was accompanied by none other than the King of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan, who added an extra layer of charisma to the proceedings. The collaboration of cricketing leaders and Bollywood royalty set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

    Shah Rukh Khan’s enthralling performance: A showstopper’s speech

    Shah Rukh, renowned for his captivating performances, took center stage, mesmerizing the audience with his charm and energy. Delivering a powerful speech highlighting the strength of women, Khan’s charismatic presence ignited the atmosphere. The crowd erupted in cheers as he showcased iconic dance moves, infusing the event with his trademark enthusiasm.

    Bollywood celebrities shine: Adding glitter to the evening

    Representatives from Bollywood took the stage, with Shahid Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Tiger Shroff, Siddharth Malhotra and Kartik Aaryan representing different teams. Each celebrity brought their unique style and charisma, contributing to the glamour of the evening. Their scintillating performances were a perfect blend of entertainment and celebration, captivating the audience.

    Also READ: WPL 2024: TV channels, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia, US, UK and other countries

    Trophy unveiling and virtual cheers: Launching WPL 2024 in style

    After the dazzling performances, it was time for the captains to unveil the coveted trophy, symbolizing the initiation of a fierce and competitive tournament. Mooney, Healy, Lanning, Mandhana and Harmanpreet proudly raised the trophy amid thunderous applause. The crowd erupted in applause as the captains raised the trophy, symbolizing the beginning of a fierce and competitive tournament.

    As the dazzling show unfolded, fans and cricket enthusiasts took to social media platforms to express their exhilaration. The performances, speeches, and overall spectacle received widespread praise, creating a buzz and anticipation for the thrilling matches that await in the marquee event. Social media platforms were abuzz with reactions, turning the grand opening into a virtual celebration that echoed the excitement of fans worldwide. The WPL 2024 had not only commenced on the field but had already won the hearts of millions off it.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

     

    Also WATCH: Kartik Aaryan, Sidharth Malhotra, Shahrukh Khan and other stars entertain fans in WPL 2024 opening ceremony

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.



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  • Heartbreak for Healy after digging Aussies out after early collapse

    Heartbreak for Healy after digging Aussies out after early collapse

    Alyssa Healy heartbreakingly missed the chance to conquer the final frontier of her illustrious career, but still fulfilled a challenge she set herself when she became Australian captain.

    Healy appeared certain to score her maiden Test century before the stunning disappointment of playing her first false shot of the innings to be out caught and bowled in the shadow of stumps on day one for 99, a cruel fate that once also befell her husband, Mitchell Starc.

    The Australian skipper told herself upon stepping into Meg Lanning’s shoes as captain that she wanted to draw on her predecessors innate ability to carry her team on her shoulders … and she did just that on Thursday night even if the brilliant counter-attacking knock ended in utter shock and disbelief.

    After obliterating South Africa in the first session of the Test to bowl them out for 76, Australia suddenly found itself on the brink of its own crisis in response at 3-12.

    That was before Beth Mooney (78) and Healy (99 off 124) combined for a match-altering partnership that steered Australia to a commanding 175-run lead as they finished the day 5-251.

    Cricket’s iconic Wild West had another tale of destruction to tell after Australian quick Darcie Brown ransacked South Africa … but the carnage only continued when Phoebe Litchfield was out in the first over and Ellyse Perry and Tahlia McGrath followed cheaply soon after.

    Enter A. Healy.

    Along with the world’s premier batter Mooney, Healy resurrected the innings in oppressive 40 degree conditions with a trademark counter-attacking knock, and after the tea break, the Australians found another gear to leave the South African total in their wake.

    Healy suffered a potentially career-threatening injury at the start of the summer when she was bitten on the hand by her dog in a freak accident.

    But Healy has shaken off the setback and extinguished any doubts about the long-term impact on her precious keeping and batting fingers.

    However, devastatingly she missed out on notching what would have been a signature moment of her career.

    The Australian captain openly admitted after last year’s drawn Ashes that she had learned big lessons about the challenge of leading her country, and she was again tested in India over the summer when the Aussies suffered a rare Test match trouncing.

    But stepping into the very large shoes of Lanning, Healy has proven herself to be another one of those special captains who leads from the front – a trait she didn’t feel she possessed when she took on the captaincy.

    “What I’ve learned from Meg over her leadership is how resilient she is and also her ability to just pick up all of the team, put them on her shoulders and go, ‘I’m gonna go out there and win the game for my side’”, Healy said when she took over as captain.

    “That probably hasn’t always been the way that I’ve played my cricket and it’s probably not been the way that I’ve led either. But I mean, if I can find some sort of middle ground in that regard and go, ‘You know what, it’s my time to go out there and win the game or play the innings or take the catch that wins it’, then I’m going to do that as a leader and hopefully show the others that we can do it.”

    It was a horror couple of hours for South African cricket in general, as the Protea men collapsed to lose 6-33 in New Zealand at the same time five-wicket hero Brown and pace twin Annabel Sutherland sent the rainbow nation’s women packing for 76, their lowest ever Test score.

    This is only the second Test South Africa’s women have played in the past decade, and it showed as Australia very nearly bowled them out in the first session of the match, leaving them completely rattled at 8-55 at lunch.

    Brown’s spectacular 5-21 was not only her best Test match bowling figures, but was the first five-wicket haul of her international career overall as the 20-year-old announced herself as a genuine star of the future.

    Sutherland was also mesmerising with her 3-19 from 9 overs, and at one point was on a hat-trick after dismissing South Africa batting star Tazmin Brits and Test debutant Delmi Tucker in successive balls.

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