Australia’s historic CommBank Tour of Bangladesh could see a surprising shift in strategy as they prepare for their inaugural ODI on Bangladeshi soil. Sophie Molineux’s recent success in the Women’s Premier League final hints at a possible four-spinner attack for the visitors.
Alyssa Healy Said About CommBank Tour Of Bangladesh 2024
Captain Alyssa Healy remained coy about Australia’s final lineup, acknowledging some fatigue and illness within the squad. However, she emphasized the potential for a spin-centric approach given the conditions in Bangladesh and past statistics that favor slower bowling.
Change In Team Squad
The team is guaranteed to see at least one change, with Megan Schutt likely to reclaim her spot. The question remains whether Molineux’s impressive WPL performance will earn her a place alongside the favored leg-spinners Georgia Wareham and Alana King, or if she’ll replace a pace bowler entirely.
Ashleigh Gardner, with her all-around off-spin abilities, remains a fixture in the lineup. While Grace Harris may be less prominent in the ODI format, she provides further off-spin options for Australia.
Spinners Role
“There’s real potential [for four spinners], especially given the conditions and the role spin has traditionally played here,” Healy said. “However, our pace attack is crucial, and we’ll be looking for the right balance.”
The team’s recent workload is a factor, with many players coming straight from the WPL to the CommBank Tour of Bangladesh. Healy acknowledges the need to manage fatigue levels strategically.
“It’s the reality of the modern game, players competing globally all year round,” Healy said. “Fortunately, we have players like Tayla Vlaeminck and Sophie Molineux bringing fresh energy. It’s a good reminder for everyone to stay grounded and appreciate representing Australia.”
Preparation For T20 World Cup 2024
This tour isn’t just about the ODIs. With the T20 World Cup taking place in Bangladesh later this year, these six white-ball matches are invaluable for Australia’s preparation. It’s their first Bangladesh visit in over a decade, offering a chance to adapt and prepare for a strong T20 World Cup title defense.
“Playing against a team so comfortable in their home conditions is a fantastic challenge,” Healy said. “We expect Bangladesh to capitalize on their experience, making this an excellenttest for our side.”
CommBank Tour Of Bangladesh Schedule
1st ODI Match | Thursday, March 21 | 2:30 pm AEDT
2nd ODI Match | Sunday, March 24 | 2:30 pm AEDT
3rd ODI Match | Wednesday, March 27 | 2:30 pm AEDT
1st T20I Match | Sunday, March 31 | 5:00 pm AEDT
2nd T20I Match | Tuesday, April 2 | 5:00 pm AEDT
3rd T20I Match | Thursday, April 4 | 5:00 pm AEDT
Venue: Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka, Bangladesh