Gardner, McGrath named in Australia Women squad for day-night Ashes Test

Australia have named a strong 13-player squad for the historic women’s day-night Test against England, as the hosts seek to retain the Ashes.

Kristen Beams, the leg-spinner, and quick Belinda Vakarewa have been omitted from Australia’s squad ahead of the Test starting on Thursday (November 9) at North Sydney Oval. The squad boasts five uncapped Test players, including Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath and Amanda-Jade Wellington.

An Australian victory will seal an Ashes series triumph after they won the One-Day International leg 2-1.

“Belinda showed promising signs with the ball and is definitely a player of the future, and whilst she would be disappointed, it’s pleasing to see so many pace bowlers putting their hands up for selection,” Shawn Flegler, Australia’s selector, said. “Kristen was also unlucky to miss out on selection, with the panel opting to go with just the one leg-spinner in the side.

“A win in this match could see Australia take an unassailable lead in the series and retain the Ashes, so it was important that the side was well-balanced and capable of taking 20 wickets,” he added.

The Australian squad will have a training session under lights at North Sydney Oval on Tuesday evening followed by a final practice on Wednesday afternoon.

Australia Test squad: Alex Blackwell, Nicole Bolton, Lauren Cheatle, Ashleigh Gardner, Rachael Haynes (c), Alyssa Healy (wk), Jess Jonassen, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Elyse Villani, Amanda-Jade Wellington