Women's T20 WC: Phoebe Litchfield set to miss three matches due to quad injury
Leeds, June 17
Australia have been dealt a big blow amid the ongoing Women's T20 World Cup 2026, as their in-form batter Phoebe Litchfield is set to miss the next three games after injuring her quad while batting against South Africa.
Litchfield is not taking part in Australia's second match against Bangladesh on Wednesday. All-rounder Ashleigh Gardner is also not playing the match due to a leg sprain.
Litchfield was in top form in the first match against South Africa; the youngster made 50 runs off just 23 balls and gave a good start to the Australian side, which made a big difference in the match.
This latest setback is a fresh injury for the 23-year-old, who had been dealing with quad "awareness" in the same leg prior to the tournament, sitting out both warm-up matches in Cardiff.
Litchfield will likely also miss upcoming games against the Netherlands and Pakistan but could return for Australia's blockbuster showdown against India at Lord's on June 28.
Megan Schutt and Grace Harris have come into the Australia XI in their place as the six-time winners made a big change in the batting order. Elyssa Perry is placed at number 3 in Litchfield's absence.
"Beautiful ground, never been here before. Two changes, Phoebe Litchfield and Ash Gardner are out, and Grace Harris and Megan Schutt are in. Just a couple of injuries. So yeah, Phoebe's got a new quad injury. She'll be out until hopefully the India match. Poor Ash had a bit of a fall, the old girl. Sprained ankle, will be fine for next game," skipper Sophie Molineux said after winning the toss and opting to bowl against Bangladesh.
Australia playing XI: Beth Mooney(wk), Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Grace Harris, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molineux(c), Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Injuries are always unfortunate, especially for a young player like Litchfield who was in such great form. That 50 off 23 balls against South Africa was incredible to watch. Australia's depth is scary though—Grace Harris and Megan Schutt coming in isn't a bad replacement at all. Let's see how India prepare for them. 🤔
As a cricket fan, I feel bad for Phoebe—she's been a joy to watch this tournament. But Australia's squad is so deep that even missing two key players, they still look strong. India better step up their bowling and fielding if they want to beat this Australian side at Lord's. Should be a cracker of a match! 🏏
Honestly, I think Australia will still be favourites even without Litchfield and Gardner. Their bench strength is unreal—Grace Harris and Megan Schutt are proven performers. But for India, this is a golden opportunity. If we can't beat them now, when will we? Need our top order to fire at Lord's. 💪
Poor Phoebe! She's been dealing with quad issues before the tournament and now this. Hope she recovers well and doesn't rush back for the India match. Cricket is better when players are 100% fit. Australia's depth is incredible, but losing two starters is never easy. Good luck to both teams! 😊
Big blow for Australia, but honestly, this is where we see their real strength. Elyssa Perry at number 3 is a great move—she's experienced.
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