Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?

**Next Article Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025 01:11 pm*

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**What’s the story?**

The Australian women’s cricket team, led by veteran keeper-batter Alyssa Healy, is determined to defend its title at the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, starting September 30. The squad also sees the return of spinner Sophie Molineux from injury, strengthening their already formidable bowling attack.

Out of the 15-member squad, 10 players were part of the team that secured Australia’s seventh World Cup title in New Zealand in 2022. Here, we analyze the strengths and potential challenges facing this Australian side.

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**Team Composition**

Australia’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 includes:
Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, and Georgia Wareham.

Coached by Shelley Nitschke, Australia currently holds the top spot in the ICC WODI rankings, reflecting their dominance in women’s cricket.

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**Team Analysis**

**Batting: Australia’s Strength**

Batting remains one of Australia’s biggest assets. Veteran players such as Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner have all averaged over 43 with the bat in WODIs this year. Their experience, combined with the promising talents of youngsters like Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll, gives the team a solid and balanced batting lineup.

The “Women in Yellow” have been in excellent form, winning five of their six WODIs in 2025, including a recent 2-1 series victory over co-hosts India.

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**All-rounders and Fielding**

Australia boasts incredible depth in all-rounders, enhancing their flexibility and balance. During the recent India series, Healy utilized eight different bowlers, showcasing the team’s versatile bowling attack.

Players like Perry, Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath stand out as world-class three-dimensional cricketers. The batting order is well-structured, with clear roles and responsibilities for each player.

Additionally, Australia’s fielding is a major strength, with stars like Megan Schutt and Perry regarded among the safest catchers in international cricket.

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**Pressure Performance**

Australia’s proven ability to perform under pressure has been a cornerstone of their success. With seven WODI World Cup titles and six WT20 World Cups, the team knows how to thrive on big stages.

Having 10 players from their 2022 championship-winning squad provides valuable experience, especially for high-pressure matches in the upcoming tournament.

It’s noteworthy that this could be the last World Cup campaign for several senior players such as Healy, Mooney, Perry, and Schutt, adding extra motivation to finish on a high.

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**Fitness Concerns and Conditions**

Fitness remains an area of concern. Spinner Sophie Molineux is returning from a long injury layoff, while Healy herself has recently made a comeback.

The hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka will pose further challenges. Effective workload management will be crucial for the team’s success.

Healy’s current form as an opener also poses questions. Since January 2024, she has scored 490 runs in WODIs at an average of 32.66, which is a slight dip compared to her usual standards.

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**Conclusion**

Australia enters the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as clear favorites, boasting a strong and experienced squad with the perfect blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent.

While fitness and adapting to demanding conditions remain challenges, their depth, tactical flexibility, and championship pedigree make them a formidable contender to defend their crown.

With high expectations on their shoulders, the Women in Yellow will be keen to reaffirm their dominance on the world stage once again.
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