Australian fast bowler Tayla Vlaeminck is out of the Twenty20 World Cup due to a dislocated shoulder as uncertainty remains around the ankle injury suffered by captain Alyssa Healy.
In the latest awful juncture of an injury-blighted career, Vlaeminck’s shoulder popped out while fielding against Pakistan before she had even had the chance to get to the bowling crease.
The International Cricket Council confirmed Vlaeminck would be replaced by Heather Graham on Sunday, hours before the start of Australia’s final pool game against India.
Tayla Vlaeminck is out of the rest of Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign.Credit: Getty Images
But Healy’s status remains unknown, with more to be disclosed by the team closer to the India game, which is due to start at 1am Monday (AEDT).
Healy was described as having suffered an “acute ankle injury” during the Pakistan game.
If ruled out, she would be replaced as captain by deputy Tahlia McGrath, while Beth Mooney would take over as wicketkeeper.
“There’s certainly going to have to be changes, that’s pretty obvious, but I think as a whole unit it’s making sure that we stick together,” all-rounder Ash Gardner had said.
“They’re our mates at the end of the day, so making sure their well-being is put first, and then we have to switch pretty quickly into that India game, it’s certainly going to be a challenge.”
Australian skipper Alyssa Healy leaves the field after retiring hurt during her innings.Credit: AP
Vlaeminck’s latest injury, after previously having her potentially brilliant career interrupted by knee, foot and shoulder injuries, left her teammates particularly saddened as they all knew how much the 25-year-old had fought to get back to her best and fittest.
“It’s obviously horrible seeing one of your mates go down and knowing Tay’s road to get back to here. She’s someone that probably works harder than anyone else I know,” said Gardner.
“So we all really felt for her. There were people that were obviously emotional and I think that just shows the care that we have for our teammates and especially Tay.
“Unlucky things happen and then you just kind of got to get on with it and wait until after the game just to make sure that Tay was OK – and she’s in good spirits which is nice to see.”
