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Australian women’s captain Alyssa Healy has declared that she will step away from all forms of international cricket after the conclusion of the multi-format home series against India, which culminates with a one-off Test at Perth’s WACA Ground from March 6.
Healy announced on the Willow Talk podcast, which she co-hosts, marking the end of an illustrious 16-year international career that began in February 2010.
Among the most accomplished players in the history of women’s cricket, Healy has contributed to seven World Cup victories, one ODI and six T20 titles, along with a Commonwealth Games gold medal.
Statistically, she will finish as the most successful wicketkeeper in women’s internationals with 269 dismissals across formats.
At the same time, her 7,106 international runs place her among Australia’s greatest batters, behind only Meg Lanning and Ellyse Perry.
“It’s with mixed emotions that the upcoming India series will be my last for Australia,” Alyssa Healy stated. “I’m still passionate about playing for Australia, but I’ve somewhat lost that competitive edge that’s kept me driven since the start, so the time feels right to call it a day.”
“Knowing I won’t be going to the T20 World Cup this year and the limited preparation time the team has, I won’t be part of the T20s against India, but I’m excited to have the opportunity to finish my career and captain the ODI and Test side at home against India – one of the biggest series on the calendar for us,” said Healy.
Injuries and Mental Toll in Recent Seasons
Recent seasons have seen Healy contend with recurring injuries, including a fractured thumb during the WBBL and a calf strain that ruled her out of the latter stages of the ODI World Cup.
Mentally, she admitted the repeated effort to return to full strength had become increasingly demanding.
By withdrawing from T20Is ahead of time, Healy has allowed Australia to plan effectively for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, beginning on June 13 in Manchester.
Preparatory series against India and the West Indies remain part of the roadmap.
Selectors have yet to confirm her long-term successor as captain, with vice-captain Tahlia McGrath, Ashleigh Gardner and Phoebe Litchfield emerging as leading contenders.
Domestically, Healy is also nearing the end of her playing career and will represent New South Wales in the Women’s National Cricket League for the final time as she builds towards her farewell international appearances.
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