Australia’s Healy Clears Fitness Hurdle for World Cup Semi-Final

In a crucial update for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, Australian captain Alyssa Healy has successfully navigated a fitness test, signaling her potential availability for the high-octane semi-final against India. Healy had been battling a calf injury picked up during training before the England match, leading to her sitting out the last two league stage games. On Thursday in Mumbai, she demonstrated positive signs of recovery by participating in wicket-keeping drills and completing a challenging net session, where she actively engaged with the bowlers. Beth Mooney, who took over wicket-keeping duties in Healy’s absence, conveyed her optimism about the skipper’s return, highlighting Healy’s significant contribution to the team. Coach Shelley Nitschke had previously indicated a hopeful outlook for Healy’s return for the semi-final, subject to ongoing medical assessments. Healy’s form prior to her injury was exceptional; she scored 294 runs in just four innings, boasting an average of 98 and a formidable strike rate of 131.25. Notably, her highest score of 142 came against India, their upcoming semi-final opponents. Her return would be a massive boost for the defending champions heading into the decisive encounter in Navi Mumbai.