Alyssa Healy says Australia have something to make up for during the forthcoming women’s Ashes series, which starts next week.
Healy, Australia’s dynamic wicketkeeper batsman, has recently signed a deal to play for the Yorkshire Diamonds in this summer’s Kia Super League following hot on the heels of the biggest clash in international cricket.
The current holders of the Ashes after winning it on home soil in late 2017, Healy says the Aussies did not do themselves justice in the one-day World Cup in England earlier that year when they were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual runners-up India.
India lost to England in the final at Lord’s, and Healy admits that still rankles.
“We didn’t have a great World Cup in England. We left a lot out there,” she admitted. “We want to put that right.
“We’re very keen that there is an improvement in this series.
“But it’s going to be a really big test because England are strong.
“We’ve been training and preparing for a little while now, and it’s really exciting. It’s a great fixture on the calendar that you want to be a part of. As I say, England are a tough team to beat, especially in home conditions. But our group is ready to meet that challenge.”
Healy, 29, is an Ashes veteran having played in all four series decided by the points system across all formats, the first of those being in England in the 2013 summer.
Of the two series played in England in 2013 and 2015, the sides have won one apiece.
“It’s definitely more special to win away,” added Healy. “I think everyone’s more comfortable in their home conditions – it’s what we’re used to. But a lot of the English girls flourish when they come to Australia, and we’re confident of doing the same.”
The first of three ODIs is at Leicester on Tuesday before a solitary Test Match at Taunton (July 18-21). That will be followed by three T20 internationals.
Each of the limited overs games are worth two points for a win and one in the event of a draw. The Test is worth four points for a win and two for a draw.
Australia’s squad includes two former Diamonds players in Beth Mooney and Delissa Kimmince, both of whom played in last year’s KSL.
England are expected to name their squad later this week.
