Australia Women are ready to take on New Zealand Women in the second match of the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup on Wednesday at the Holkar Stadium. This game is set to be a compelling one between the defending champions and a determined challenger eager to make a statement early in the tournament.

Australia arrive in India as the undisputed giants of women’s cricket. As the defending champions and the most successful team in Women’s World Cup history, the Aussies carry the confidence of having a deeply experienced and skilful squad. 

However, Australia were dealt a blow this week with all-rounder Grace Harris ruled out of the tournament after sustaining a calf strain in the third ODI against India. Australia have named five players in the 50-over World Cup squad for the first time – Sophie Molineux, Georgia Wareham, Kim Garth, Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll. Meanwhile, the likes of Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner bring a wealth of experience and will be expected to play a decisive role in Australia's campaign. 

New Zealand, on the other hand, come into the tournament with hopes of turning their promise into performance. New Zealand have had their moments in past tournaments but have struggled for consistency. This time, they’ll be looking to change that narrative right from the outset. They have reliable players such as Captain Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, Lea Tahuhu, and Amelia Kerr to turn things around for them. 

Head-to-head

Matches – 135

AUS-W won – 102

NZ-W won – 31

Australia likely XI: Alyssa Healy (c, wk), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt

New Zealand likely XI: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (c), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Izzy Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Lea Tahuhu