Veteran Australian cricketer Jess Jonassen faces an uphill battle to retain her place in the national squad after being omitted from the team selected for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Jonassen, a left-arm spinner who debuted internationally in 2015, has been a key player in Australia’s cricketing success, contributing to four T20 World Cup victories, a Commonwealth Games gold medal, and two Big Bash League titles.
However, despite her impressive resume, Jonassen was not included in the squad for the Bangladesh tour earlier this year. Instead, national selectors opted to bring in leg-spinners Georgia Wareham and Alana King.
The decision reflects a strategic shift as the selectors aim to assemble a team capable of making history by winning a fourth consecutive T20 World Cup, a feat that no men’s or women’s team has achieved.
Selector Shawn Flegler expressed confidence in the chosen squad, emphasizing its balance and depth. “For the first time in quite a while, we have our entire contract list available for World Cup selection, leading to a stable and well-rounded squad,” Flegler said.
He highlighted the leadership of Alyssa Healy, who will captain the team at a World Cup for the first time, alongside vice-captain Tahlia McGrath.
Flegler also pointed out the potential impact of Phoebe Litchfield, describing her as an “X-factor” player who will be supported by a strong group of seasoned teammates in her first World Cup appearance.
Additionally, the pace duo of Tayla Vlaeminck and Darcie Brown is expected to provide a unique edge to the team, with Flegler noting that the selectors have been eager to see them in action together.
While Jonassen’s omission is notable, Flegler acknowledged her resilience and commitment, suggesting that her form will continue to be monitored closely as Australia prepares for the home summer season.
The squad selected for the World Cup will also participate in a three-match T20I series against New Zealand next month. Heather Graham has been added to the squad for these matches but will not travel to the UAE for the World Cup.
Australia, placed in Group A, will compete against India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka when the T20 World Cup kicks off on October 3.
Australia’s T20 World Cup Squad:
– Alyssa Healy (C)
– Darcie Brown
– Ashleigh Gardner
– Kim Garth
– Grace Harris
– Alana King
– Phoebe Litchfield
– Tahlia McGrath
– Sophie Molineux
– Beth Mooney
– Ellyse Perry
– Megan Schutt
– Annabel Sutherland
– Georgia Wareham
– Tayla Vlaeminck
