In a significant move for Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) enthusiasts, Australia’s stand-in skipper, Alyssa Healy, has reaffirmed her commitment to the Sydney Sixers franchise. With the ninth edition of the WBBL poised to kick off on October 19, Healy’s three-year contract extension adds more star power to the tournament’s upcoming season.
As the reigning champions, the Sydney Sixers are set to embark on their journey against the Melbourne Stars in the tournament’s curtain-raiser. Healy, who led the national team as the stand-in captain during the Women’s Ashes, expressed her enthusiasm and ‘reinvigoration’ for the game as she penned the new contract.
“The only thing we pondered was how long we wanted the deal to be. The beauty of the situation is I have had an exciting opportunity to captain the side in the Ashes. Whether that is something that will happen moving forward or not doesn’t matter. It has reinvigorated how I think about the game and how I am enjoying it,” Healy quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
When asked about her decision, Healy stated that the only aspect they contemplated was the duration of the contract. Her recent experience of captaining the national side in the Ashes left her with a fresh perspective on the game. According to her, whether or not she continues as captain moving forward is irrelevant; what truly matters is the newfound passion and enjoyment she derives from the game.
“There is an exciting 12 months ahead with World Cups and trips to Bangladesh. I am still loving playing for Australia, but the WBBL is great to be part of. It’s made me think about what I need as an individual. But being a skipper you don’t have time to think about anything. You are focusing on the game and tactics, and I forgot to think about what I need to make sure I perform. It has made me think about my game and what I can do to be better,” she added.
Alyssa Healy looks forward to an eventful year with the Women’s World Cups and tours to Bangladesh on the horizon. While she cherishes playing for Australia, the WBBL holds a special place in her heart. Her role as a captain requires intense focus on the game and tactical aspects, often leaving little time for personal reflection. However, this new phase has prompted her to contemplate her game and identify avenues for improvement.
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Healy, at 33, has not just extended her association with the Sixers and will lead the national team in the upcoming T20I and ODI home series against the West Indies, stepping in for the absent Meg Lanning. Her leadership and cricketing prowess make her a key figure in domestic and international cricket.
In the recently concluded WBBL draft, the Sydney Sixers bolstered their squad with notable additions like Jess Kerr and Chloe Tryon. Furthermore, the franchise retained the services of Ellyse Perry, a cricketing icon in her own right, for an additional two years. Perry will continue to lead the team, ensuring continuity in leadership and experience.
Sydney Sixers WBBL 9 Squad: Alyssa Healy, Jade Allen, Maitlan Brown, Erin Burns, Lauren Cheatle, Ash Gardner, Emma Hughes, Jess Kerr, Kate Peterson, Ellyse Perry (c), Chloe Tryon.
