Why is Alyssa Healy not playing today’s AUS vs SA 1st semifinal of 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup?
Australia captain Alyssa Healy is missing the semi-final clash of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 against South Africa. She sustained an injury to her right foot during Australia’s group-stage game against Pakistan and subsequently missed the next match against India.
Ahead of the match against the Women in blue, Healy arrived at the venue on crutches and Tahlia McGrath led the team against Harmanpreet Kaur’s India. Though the wicketkeeper-batter was seen walking without crutches when the team arrived at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium for the semi-final clash, it was McGrath who walked out for the toss.
With Australia continuing with the winning combination from the previous game, it’ll be interesting to see how they tackle the South African side in their quest for a seventh T20 World Cup title. With McGrath continuing to lead the side, Ellyse Perry will carry on as the vice-captain.
Before the India game, Cricket Australia had stated that they would continue to monitor Healy’s injury and that her availability would be determined eventually.
"She will continue to be assessed over the coming days and should Australia qualify for the semi-finals, her availability will be determined in due course," Cricket Australia said in their statement (via ICC).
South Africa look to avenge previous edition’s final loss
Laura Wolvaardt-led South Africa are looking for their maiden T20 World Cup title and will be pumped up as they face Australia in semi-final 1 of the tournament. The two teams faced off in the final of the 2023 edition of the 20-over World Cup, with the Women in Yellow eventually lifting their sixth title.
South Africa, who are in good form heading into the crucial clash, will try to make the most out of the upcoming game and use Healy’s absence to their advantage. Wolvaardt won the toss and put the defending champions to bat first with an aim to avenge last year’s loss in the final that took place at their home in Cape Town.