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The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is already underway in England and Wales. The tournament enters its 10th edition with the return of the competition to England, where the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup was held in 2009. In this edition, a total of twelve teams are competing, divided into two groups, with 33 matches played at seven venues in England.
On Wednesday, Australia women’s national cricket team, the most successful team in women’s cricket, will take on Bangladesh women’s national cricket team in Group A. This is match number 9 of the T20 World Cup, which is being played at Headingley, Leeds. During the match, two Australian cricketers could not play the match due to injury.
Australia lost two key players
Australia captain Sophie Molineux told during the toss that Phoebe Litchfield and Ash Gardner are out, replacing them with Grace Harris and Megan Schutt. Both the cricketers were out due to their respective injuries. Litchfield suffered a new quad injury, and Ash Gardner suffered a sprained ankle. However, it was reported that the latter would be available for the next match, but Lichfield would miss some matches.
During the toss, Sophie Molineux said, “We’ll have a bowler. Just looking at the pitch, a bit soft on top. Hopefully we’ll make the best of it with our seamers. The outfield looks very sharp. Beautiful ground, never been here before.”
“Two changes, Phoebe Litchfield and Ash Gardner are out, and Grace Harris and Megan Scutt are in. Just a couple of injuries. So yes, Phoebe’s got a new injury. Hopefully she’ll be out until the India game. Poor Ash had a bit of a fall, old girl. Sprained an ankle, should be fine for the next game.”
Australia won the toss and decided to bowl first
Sophie won the toss and decided to bowl first. They completely defeated their rivals South Africa in their opening game and won the game by 65 runs. The Australian team will look to dominate this game against Bangladesh, and not only ensure a win but also register a resounding win and increase their NRR.
Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana, on the other hand, said, “We really wanted to bat first because we really wanted to give our batting unit the freedom to play with freedom and get some runs on the board. (Despite facing them with a tough record against Australia) I think everyone has an equal opportunity here.”
“I think the important thing is how we really play this game. It’s all about mentality for sure. And we believe if we can come together, contribute down the middle and execute our plans the right way, I think we have a chance.”
AUS W vs BAN W Playing XI:
Australia Women (Playing XI): Beth Mooney (w), Georgia Woll, Ellyse Perry, Grace Harris, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molyneux (c), Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt
Bangladesh Women (Playing XI): Dilara Akhtar, Zuaria Firdous, Nigar Sultana (WK/Captain), Sobhana Mostari, Sharmin Akhtar, Shorna Akhtar, Ritu Moni, Nahida Akhtar, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatoon, Marufa Akhtar.
