ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026: Australia coach Shelley Nitschke hints at Phoebe Litchfield comeback for India clash
London, June 25
Australia head coach Shelley Nitschke hinted that star batter Phoebe Litchfield could make her comeback from injury in Australia's final group-stage fixture against India at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in London on Sunday.
Litchfield sustained a calf injury while playing a match-winning knock against the South Africa team in Manchester earlier in the tournament. Since then, she has missed Australia's last three matches, watching from the sidelines as the defending champions continued their unbeaten run in the competition.
"I think Pheebs (Litchfield) is tracking really well and hopefully will be available for the India game," Nitschke told cricket.com.au on Wednesday, as quoted by ICC.
"And then, that's going to be really tough call - Pheebs is likely to come back into that No.3 position, so then we've got some decisions to make on what the set-up looks like and how to structure up. But obviously someone has come out for her," the Australia head coach added.
Young pacer Lucy Hamilton could be the player that misses out for Litchfield's impending return, while Nitschke also confirmed all-rounder Grace Harris could be in line for a recall given her experience at Lord's.
"She (Harris) has played at Lord's quite a bit with the London Spirit, so she certainly throws her hat into the ring as well," Nitschke said. "She's been really unlucky so we've certainly got some options."
A win against the Women in Blue will ensure Australia finish on top of their group and enters the semi-finals unbeaten, while a loss may also prove enough for the side to reach the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led India will take on the Bangladesh Women in a crucial Group A contest in the ongoing marquee tournament. The much-awaited contest will be held at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm a bit worried about our middle order. If top three fail, there's not much depth. And Australia's pace attack can exploit that. But our spinners like Deepti and Radha have been brilliant in England conditions. Should be a cracker of a match at Lord's! 🔥
People are underestimating how tough it is to beat Australia in ICC tournaments. They have that champion mentality. But if there's one team that can surprise them, it's this Indian side. Our girls have been training hard and showing real grit. Let's hope our fielding improves - that's been a weak spot.
Litchfield is a class player but coming back from injury in a high-pressure game might backfire. Australia should be careful. Meanwhile, India need to focus on Bangladesh first - can't take them lightly. One match at a time! 👏
ICC should have given more matches at Lord's and less at smaller grounds. This tournament deserves better venues. But that aside, I'm excited for India vs Australia - always a nail-biter! Our girls have the talent, just need to handle pressure in crunch moments. 🤞
The way our women's team has grown in the last few years is amazing. Even if we lose, the future is bright. But this time, I have a gut feeling we'll finally beat Australia in a World Cup match. Sakshi or Shafali just need to give us a flying start! 🏏
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