In a commanding display of form, Australia A completed a 3-0 series whitewash over India A in their recent T20 series, with a few players in contention for the upcoming T20 World Cup showing their formidable potential. The series, held in Brisbane, saw standout performances from Tayla Vlaeminck and Tahlia McGrath, offering a glimpse of what could be expected from the Australian squad in the upcoming tournament.
Vlaeminck, who has battled through a series of injuries over the past few years, showcased her remarkable pace and skill in the final T20. The Victorian quick was instrumental in Australia A’s seven-wicket victory, dismissing Indian opener Shubha Satheesh with a beautifully delivered in-swinger. Her impressive figures of 1-6 from four overs were pivotal in restricting India A to 8-120.
Despite a strong effort from Kiran Navgire, who scored a brisk 38 off 20 balls, India A’s total proved inadequate. Australia A’s chase was spearheaded by Tahlia McGrath, who delivered an unbeaten 51 off 22 balls, ensuring her side reached the target with 37 balls to spare.
Vlaeminck, who returned to professional cricket last summer, is hopeful that her current form will secure her a place in the T20 World Cup squad. Her recent decision to forgo The Hundred in favor of a focused training regimen at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane reflects her dedication to making a significant impact. “I’ve been on turf all winter, and had a pretty uninterrupted preseason as well,” Vlaeminck said. “I feel like I’m in a good space, and hopefully, I can keep that going and get into the New Zealand series and hopefully on to a World Cup.”
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With her last World Cup appearance dating back to 2018, Vlaeminck is keen to make a comeback. She has been named in the 50-over Australia A squad for three one-day games in Mackay this week, although her appearances will be managed to ensure optimal fitness for the T20 World Cup.
McGrath, who captained the Australia A side during the T20 series, continued her stellar form with a series of high scores, including two unbeaten fifties. Her leadership and batting prowess have been instrumental in Australia A’s successful campaign. “T-Mac’s (Tahlia McGrath) been really good in the last couple of games,” Vlaeminck noted. “She’s been exceptional, and Tahlia Wilson’s been unreal at the top of the order.”
Wilson’s contributions at the top of the order, with scores of 50, 53 not out, and 39 in the three matches, provided Australia A with strong starts in their innings. Leg-spinner Grace Parsons also shone with the ball, taking 2-18 (4) in the final match, continuing her impressive form from the previous game.
As Australia A prepares for their upcoming one-day series against India A, the team will look to maintain their momentum and further fine-tune their preparations for the T20 World Cup.