Wisden

The independent voice of cricket

LIVE SCORES
Women's Cricket

‘We’ve got some great versatility in the bowling group’ – Jonassen

by Wisden Staff 2 minute read

Jess Jonassen, Australia’s left-arm spinner cites the healthy competition among the players as one of the team’s greatest strengths.

Australia Women continued their dominant run in white-ball cricket, beating Sri Lanka by 157 runs in the first of the three ODIs at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field and with it registered their 16th straight win in the format. Jonassen, who starred with the ball, registering figures of 2-17 in her eight over spell, reflected on the all-round skills of the bowling unit.

“We got some great versatility in the bowling group, we’ve got almost every type of bowler,” she said. “Everyone’s clear about their roles within the bowling line-up and fortunately we have managed to click together. To learn from each other is what we’ve done well as a group over the last few years.”

Australia used seven bowlers, who bowled as many as 10 maiden overs between them to bundle out Sri Lanka for 124 in 41.3 overs –  a performance which demonstrated their discipline and consistency. Fast bowler Tayla Vlaeminck and off-spinner Ash Gardener bagged two wickets a piece, with the latter leading the way, producing stunning returns of 2-9 in her nine overs.

Jonassen talked about the healthy competition, which she feels brings the best out of individuals. “I think over the last few years the competition for spots has been one of our greatest strengths as a team. The values we want to live by as a team is all about bringing the best out of yourself and best out of each other.”

Earlier, Australia rode on half-centuries from skipper Meg Lanning, Rachael Haynes and Beth Mooney to pile up 281/8 in the first innings. Jonassen heaped praises on Lanning, who led the way with a stroke-filled 73. “I think Meg (Lanning) set the tone at the halfway mark. We had a job to do with the ball, we just had to hit the right areas and use our variations.”

The 26-year-old now stands three wickets short of becoming the fourth Australian woman to complete 100 ODI wickets. She hopes to bring up the milestone in front of her home crowd.

“It’ll be very special, joining a pretty elite club. I never dreamed that it’ll ever actual happen. Hopefully I can get three wickets in the next two games and bring that milestone up, here at home.”

Have Your Say

Become a Wisden member

  • Exclusive offers and competitions
  • Money-can’t-buy experiences
  • Join the Wisden community
  • Sign up for free
LEARN MORE
Latest magazine

Get the magazine

12 Issues for just £39.99

SUBSCRIBE