Alyssa Healy has been ruled out of the first T20I against England and her participation is in doubt for the remainder of the Ashes after developing foot soreness.
Australia will be led by Tahlia McGrath in the first T20I that will be played in Sydney today. Australia had clinched the ODI series 3-0 under the leadership of Healy, who made 70, 29 and 15 at the top of the order. Healy has been replaced by the uncapped Georgia Voll as opener, while Beth Mooney will be the wicketkeeper.
Why has Alyssa Healy been ruled out of the first T20I?
A Cricket Australia statement confirmed Healy’s injury: “Alyssa has developed mid-foot soreness on the same side as her previous plantar fascia injury following the ODI series. She is currently being managed in a boot and will not be available for this evening's game. Cricket Australia's medical team is consulting with specialists to develop an appropriate management plan over the coming days. Her availability for the remainder of the series will be assessed as more information becomes available."
Her injury has also forced the board to postpone selecting the squad for the day-night Test that will be played on January 30.
According to reports, Healy’s recent injury is on the same foot which she had hurt during last year’s T20 World Cup. She had a ruptured plantar fascia during Australia’s penultimate group-stage game against Pakistan. It also forced her to miss the semi-final against South Africa, which Australia lost by eight wickets.
After her return to injury, Healy saw her Women’s Big Bash League participation cut short by a knee injury. She also missed the home series against India and did not keep wickets against New Zealand.
Ash Gardner ruled out as well
Healy is not the only blow Australia have suffered with Ash Gardner also ruled out of the first T20I due to a calf strain. Grace Harris has replaced the all-rounder in the XI.
"Ashleigh Gardner is unavailable for tonight's game with a low grade calf strain. She will be assessed over the next 48hrs to determine her availability for the next game," say Cricket Australia.
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