Healy Savours Farewell as Australia Tweak Test Squad for Perth 4

Alyssa Healy has described cricket as a “ridiculous sport” capable of breaking hearts and delivering fairytale endings, after signing off her ODI career with a blistering 158 against India in Hobart.

Healy, who admitted she had previously “hated every milestone match”, finally allowed herself to soak in the occasion. Her 98 ball masterclass, featuring a century off 79 deliveries and a rapid surge to 150, lifted her career tally to 3777 ODI runs at a strike rate nudging 101. There was even time for two overs of gentle offspin, the first of her international career, drawing applause from the crowd and playful commentary from husband Mitchell Starc.

“What a ridiculous sport that we play,” Healy said. “It can kick you down so many times and then give you opportunities like it has today. It was one of the more enjoyable experiences I’ve had.”

The emotional weight of the occasion struck earlier when she presented debutant Lucy Hamilton with her first cap, a reminder of her own 15 year journey in international cricket.

Healy’s international farewell will conclude with the pink ball Test at the WACA Ground, where Australia have made two squad changes. Tasmania batter Rachel Trenaman and New South Wales quick Maitlan Brown have been called up following injuries to Kim Garth and Sophie Molineux.

There is cautious optimism that Ellyse Perry could feature as a specialist batter as she continues her recovery from a quad issue.

For Healy, one final chance to wear the baggy green in Perth offers the perfect closing chapter.

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