Alyssa Healy Returns to Action After Injury, Eyes World Cup Comeback
After a six-month injury layoff, Australian captain Alyssa Healy made her long-awaited return to competitive cricket, marking an encouraging start to her World Cup comeback journey. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter featured in a T20 match for Australia A against India A in Queensland as she continues to work her way back to full fitness ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, set to begin on September 30 in India and Sri Lanka.
Confident Return with the Bat
Playing her first game since the Test match against England in February at the MCG, the 35-year-old Healy looked in good touch. She scored a quickfire 27 off 18 balls, reminding fans and selectors of her trademark aggressive stroke play. Her innings laid a solid platform in Australia A’s total of 137/6, which eventually proved enough for a 13-run win.
Middle Order Struggles, Anika Learoyd Shines
Despite Healy’s positive start, the middle order faltered on a sluggish pitch. However, Anika Learoyd held the innings together, scoring a composed 50 not out from 44 balls to ensure a defendable total for Australia A.
India A’s Chase Falls Short
In response, India A also found it hard to accelerate. Star batter Shafali Verma fell early for just 3, but Raghvi Bist’s 33 off 20 provided a late surge. India A needed 17 runs off the final over, but Kim Garth held her nerve, conceding just three runs to seal a thrilling win for the Aussies. The bowling effort was well-rounded, with Amy Edgar, Tess Flintoff, and Sianna Ginger all picking up two wickets each.
Healy Focused on Smart Recovery
Crucially, Healy is not yet taking on wicket-keeping duties as she cautiously manages her knee recovery. According to Cricket Australia, she will only bat in the remaining two T20s of the series. She is expected to resume wicketkeeping in the ODI series later this month in Brisbane, as she gears up for a leadership role in the World Cup squad.
Looking Ahead: Healy’s Road to the World Cup
Alyssa Healy’s return is a big boost for Australia as they prepare for the 50-over ICC Women’s World Cup. Her experience, leadership, and attacking intent at the top of the order could be key for Australia’s campaign in the subcontinent. While she’s still managing her workload, early signs from her comeback are promising.
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Healy’s Comeback: One Step at a Time
While Alyssa Healy is yet to return to full fitness, her presence on the field is already making a difference. The experienced captain knows the importance of pacing her recovery, and she’s wisely taking it one step at a time. By playing for Australia A, Healy is gradually building up her form and match fitness, with her eyes firmly set on the bigger goal—the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
If she recovers well, Healy will be a key figure in Australia’s campaign to win their historic eighth 50-over World Cup title later this year.
A Crucial Series for Healy and Australia
The ongoing series between Australia A and India A is proving to be a timely opportunity for Healy to test her readiness. The two sides will meet again in the second T20 on August 9 (Saturday) and the third T20 on August 10 (Sunday) at the same venue in Queensland.
After that, attention turns to the longer formats:
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A three-match 50-over series begins on August 12 (Tuesday)
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Followed by an unofficial Test match that will wrap up the tour
These matches are not just important for Healy, but also for Australia’s depth as they look to finalise their squad for the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, starting September 30.
Fans Eager for Healy’s Return to Full Form
There’s no doubt that Alyssa Healy is one of Australia’s most influential players—both behind the stumps and at the top of the order. Her fearless batting, sharp glovework, and calm leadership have been instrumental in Australia’s past successes.
“She’s a big player for Australia and fans want to see her at her best.”
The matches ahead are more than just fixtures—they’re important building blocks in Healy’s return to peak performance. Both the team and the fans will be watching closely, hoping she stays injury-free and rediscovers top form just in time for cricket’s biggest stage.
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