Snehasis Mukherjee in Guwahati
Australia, led by Alyssa Healy, will once again start as one of the firm favourites to win the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, beginning September 30, 2025. Recently, they defeated India 2-1 in an ODI series in India, underlining their readiness for the mega event. With a strong squad in hand, here is a detailed SWOT analysis:
Strengths
One of the biggest strengths of this Australian side is the presence of multiple all-rounders across the line-up. In the recent India series, skipper Healy used eight different bowling options, showcasing their flexibility with the ball. In batting too, whether at the top, middle, or lower order, players have clarity about their roles and responsibilities.
Fielding is another standout factor. Even in testing conditions, their commitment remains high. A prime example came in the India series, when 32-year-old pacer Megan Schutt made a full-stretched dive to save a boundary, highlighting the team’s grit and athleticism.
Australia also thrive under pressure. That is why they are the most successful team in women’s cricket history, with 7 ODI World Cups and 6 T20 World Cups. A recent reminder came in the third ODI against India.
While chasing 413, India were cruising at 206/2 with Smriti Mandhana attacking and Harmanpreet Kaur steady at the other end. But once Harmanpreet was dismissed, Australia sensed an opening. In quick succession, they removed Mandhana and Richa Ghosh, reducing India to 231/5. That mini-collapse of 3 wickets for 25 runs completely shifted the momentum and helped them take control.
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Weaknesses
One area of concern is Alyssa Healy’s inconsistency as an opener. While she is known for her explosive batting, it has often come at the cost of stability. Since January 2024, she has played 15 innings, scoring just three fifties, averaging 32.66 at a strike rate of 88.28. Since the last ODI World Cup in 2022, she has the second-lowest average (27.17 in 23 innings) among openers (minimum 20 innings).
Another issue is the role of vice-captain Tahlia McGrath in the XI. With the current team balance, her skills are not being fully utilised. She is often pushed down to bat at number seven, while with the ball, she rarely gets a consistent spell. This underuse of a proven performer has raised questions about her place in the side.
Opportunities
For several stalwarts like Healy, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry and Megan Schutt, this could be their last ODI World Cup. That alone is a huge motivation to end on a high and add another trophy to their legendary careers.
For Healy in particular, this tournament holds special significance. After taking over the captaincy from Meg Lanning following the 2023 T20 World Cup triumph, she is yet to win an ICC title as a skipper. The 2025 World Cup gives her the perfect chance to claim her first ICC trophy as a captain.
Threats
Fitness remains a potential threat. Sophie Molineux is returning after a long injury break, while Healy herself recently made a comeback from a lengthy lay-off. With the hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka, workload management will be a critical challenge for the Aussies.
Predicted Playing XI for WC
Phoebe Litchfield, Alyssa Healy (c), Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney (wk), Ash Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt
Also Read: ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025: India – SWOT Analysis