ICC Women's CWC 2022 | Ellyse Perry remains uncertain for the semi-final against West Indies

After yesterday’s loss against South Africa, the Indian Women are now out of the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup. The four teams to qualify for the knockouts are Australia, England, West Indies, and South Africa.  Australia finished on top of the table as they won all seven of their games, pocketing 14 points in total. 

However, the Australian star all-rounder Ellyse Perry is struggling with her fitness and it remains to be seen if she will be able to play in the semifinal against West Indies. She has been suffering from back spasms and has 24 hours to prove her fitness.

“I haven’t done anything cricket-wise in the last week so batting at training in the next couple of days, moving around in the field and potentially bowling,” said Perry on Monday. Going by what she is saying it seems difficult for her to be fit in time. 

A good thing for her though is that Australia are going to play the semi-final in Wellington, where Perry has been rehabilitating for quite some time.

 “We obviously don’t have to travel, staying in Wellington, so that makes it a bit simpler,” she said. 

Australia can also opt to play her just as a batsman and not as an all-rounder. Her experience will come in handy and will help stabilize the middle order. In the end, it's Matthew Mott and co. who makes the calls. 

“Personally I would be [happy to play as a batter only] but it’s what’s best for the team. It doesn’t matter what I think. It’s up to Motty [coach Matthew Mott] and the selectors,” said Perry. She would for sure want to contribute and help her team win the tournament. 

However, If Perry is unable to bowl Australia may have to tinker with their balance. They may be forced to drop a bowler or all-rounder to make may for the experienced player. Australia has the luxury of some great players and it would be interesting to see what line-up they go in with. 

The table-toppers will square off against the West Indies in the 1st semi-final on March 30th, in the Basin Reserve, Wellington.