Mirpur, Ahead of the multi-format tour of Bangladesh, Australia women’s team captain Alyssa Healy expressed confidence, drawing from her team’s recent stint in India’s Women’s Premier League (WPL). Healy believes the experience gained on India’s slow tracks will be advantageous for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, which begins with a three-match One Day International (ODI) series on March 21.
According to International Cricket Council, Healy highlighted the relevance of the experience gained during the WPL, especially playing on the slower pitches in Delhi, which she thinks could help the Australian team adapt to conditions in Bangladesh that traditionally do not favor their playing style. With 10 players from the ODI squad having participated in the WPL, the Australian skipper is banking on this recent experience to tackle the challenges posed by Bangladesh’s conditions.
The tour starts with the ODI series in Mirpur, followed by a three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series, marking a significant phase in the ICC Women’s Championship for both teams. Australia and Bangladesh have faced each other only thrice in international cricket, all encounters taking place in ICC tournaments, making this tour a rare and anticipated opportunity for both sides.
Healy did not underestimate Bangladesh, acknowledging their recent impressive performances, including ODI victories over South Africa and New Zealand and competitive series against Pakistan and India. She praised Bangladesh’s bowling attack, particularly their spinners, for their ability to challenge teams not accustomed to subcontinent conditions.
The tour is also shadowed by the uncertainty regarding the fitness of a key Australian pacer, casting concerns over the team’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The schedule for the series is set, with the ODIs taking place on March 21, 24, and 27, followed by the T20Is on March 31, April 2, and April 4, all in Mirpur.
This series is not just a test of adaptability for the Australian team but also an opportunity to strengthen their standings in the ICC Women’s Championship, while for Bangladesh, it presents a chance to assert themselves against one of cricket’s top nations.