Australia squad for New Zealand Series Announced, Darcie Brown and Hannah Darlington Called In

After a hiatus of 18 months, Australia is preparing for their first overseas tour as they head off to New Zealand for a three-match ODI and three-match T20 series. The last time Australia played an international game was against the same opponent at home whereas New Zealand is currently competing against England in a limited-overs series.

Australia has announced a squad of 17 players which include a few familiar faces with a couple of new faces being given the opportunity to showcase their talent. Hannah Darlington – the winner of the Betty Wilson Young Cricketer of the Year award and Darcie Brown have been called up after impressing fans and selectors with their performances during the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL06).

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The selection of these youngsters is just a reward for their form and shows the side’s intent to prepare for the massive two years of the tournament they have ahead of them says National selector Shawn Flegler.

“Darcie enjoyed an excellent rebel WBBL campaign with the Adelaide Strikers and has also made a great start to the WNCL with the SA Scorpions. Her ability to bowl fast outswing makes her an exciting prospect at just 17 years old.”

“We also welcome Hannah Darlington into the squad after playing a crucial part in the Sydney Thunder’s rebel WBBL|06 championships. She has been brought into the squad primarily with a T20 focus as we look towards both the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa.”

Also Read: 1st ODI: Ellyse, Alyssa and Ashleigh lead Australia to a Record Breaking Victory

Looking at the recent matches between the two countries, Australia has an edge over New Zealand. Australia has defeated New Zealand in their last 5 ODI’s and have the wood over NZ in T20s as well. NZ has won just the one T20 of the last 5 the two teams have played against each other.

Squad –

Meg Lanning (c), Rachael Haynes (VC), Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Hannah Darlington, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Jess Jonassen, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Belinda Vakarewa, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham.