Australia’s national selector Shawn Flegler has emphasized the importance of building fitness and resilience as the team gears up for a challenging 2024-25 summer, which includes defending their Women’s T20 World Cup title and hosting the Ashes at home.
After wrapping up their white-ball tour of Bangladesh, Australia’s next international series isn’t until September, offering a much-needed break following a hectic 2023-24 season. Flegler outlined the team’s preparation plan, which includes fitness programs, training camps in Brisbane, and participation in The Hundred for some players, followed by three T20Is against New Zealand.
Despite the longer break between series, Flegler assured that Australia’s preparations would remain comprehensive, with warm-up games scheduled at the start of the World Cup and a potential A series against India A. The focus remains on ensuring players are fit and resilient for the packed schedule ahead, including the 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), the ODI series against India and New Zealand, and the Ashes.
Reflecting on the recent Bangladesh tour, Flegler highlighted the valuable learning experience, particularly in understanding the playing conditions. While the matches were in Dhaka, the team gathered insights into the spin-friendly pitches expected in Sylhet for the World Cup.
Flegler underscored the importance of fitness, especially considering the contrasting weather conditions between the current tour and the World Cup in six months. He also addressed concerns about Darcie Brown’s fitness, stating that further scans would determine her recovery plan after being sidelined due to a stress injury in her foot.
With a strategic focus on fitness, adaptability, and preparation, Australia aims to maintain their high-performance levels as they navigate through an intense season ahead, aiming for continued success on the international stage.
