London, June 25: Australia’s women’s cricket team coach, Shelley Nitscke, expressed hope for Phoebe Litchfield’s return in the upcoming match against India. Litchfield has missed the last three matches of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to an injury.
Litchfield sustained a serious quad injury during a match against South Africa on June 13 at Old Trafford, where she scored 50 runs off 24 balls. Speaking to cricket.com.au on Wednesday, Nitscke confirmed her optimism regarding Litchfield’s availability for selection against India. “I believe Litchfield is playing exceptionally well, and I hope she will be available for the match against India,” Nitscke stated.
In Litchfield’s absence, Ellyse Perry has been batting at number three. If Litchfield returns fit, Perry will need to revert to the number four batting position. Perry delivered a strong performance against Pakistan, scoring 71 runs off 48 balls while batting at number three. A final decision on Litchfield’s availability will be made before the match against India on Sunday. Australia will train at Lord’s on Friday and at Wormsley on Saturday.
Should Litchfield return, Lucy Hamilton may be dropped from the playing eleven. Additionally, head coach Nitscke confirmed that all-rounder Grace Harris could be recalled for her experience at Lord’s. “She has played extensively at Lord’s with the London Spirit, so she can definitely secure her spot in the playing eleven. She has been quite unlucky, so we certainly have some options,” Nitscke added.
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