Australia faced an unfortunate incident before the first T20I against New Zealand at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay, on September 19. Star all-rounders Ashleigh Gardner and Georgia Wareham collided during a pre-match warm-up while attempting to catch a ball. The impact left Gardner with a concussion, ruling her out of the game.
As a result, Heather Graham was called in as a late inclusion to replace Gardner. Wareham, who recovered quickly from the collision, went on to play, delivering a solid bowling performance by taking 1 wicket for 27 runs from her four overs.
Injuries Ahead of T20 World Cup 2024
Gardner’s concussion adds to Australia’s injury woes ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 in the UAE next month. Grace Harris and Kim Garth have already been ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand. Harris is recovering from a calf strain, while Garth is nursing a knee injury sustained during The Hundred. Both are expected to recover in time for the World Cup.
Despite these setbacks, Australia hopes to have a fully fit squad for their title defense.
Playing XIs:
- Australia XI: Alyssa Healy (c, wk), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Heather Graham, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Megan Schutt, Tayla Vlaeminck.
- New Zealand XI: Suzie Bates (c), Georgia Plimmer, Melie Kerr, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Izzy Gaze (wk), Leigh Kasperek, Jess Kerr, Lea Tahuhu, Molly Penfold, Fran Jonas.
Other Injured Australian Cricketers
Ashleigh Gardner’s concussion adds to Australia’s growing list of injuries ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. Grace Harris and Kim Garth have already been ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand due to injuries. Garth is recovering from a left knee injury sustained during the Hundred, while Harris is dealing with a calf strain. Both players are expected to regain fitness in time for Australia’s title defense in the World Cup, providing some relief to the team management.
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