Litchfield says batters must take ‘more ownership’ and are ‘keen to rectify things’ ahead of 2nd T20I vs India
Phoebe Litchfield has called on Australia’s batting team to adopt more accountability and purpose ahead of a vital T20I against India in Canberra. As the series hangs in the balance, Litchfield highlighted the need for batters to take ownership instead of depending on lower-order players.
Litchfield says batters must take ‘more ownership’ and are ‘keen to rectify things’ ahead of 2nd T20I vs India
Canberra: Phoebe Litchfield has called on Australia’s batting unit to adopt greater accountability and purpose ahead of a crucial second T20I against India in Canberra. With the series delicately poised, she stressed that the top and middle order must take responsibility rather than relying on lower-order contributions.
Table of Contents
Heavy defeat raises urgency under new leadership
Australia endured a heavy loss in the opening T20I in Sydney, marking a disappointing start under new captain Sophie Molineux. The defeat leaves the hosts on the brink of their first home bilateral T20I series loss in nearly a decade, intensifying the need for a strong response.
Middle-order collapse proves costly
Returning from a quad injury suffered during the WPL, Litchfield had a scratchy start, failing to score off her first eight deliveries, including a maiden over from Renuka Singh.
Brief recovery before setback
She eventually found momentum, scoring 26 off 19 balls before falling to Arundhati Reddy amid a dramatic collapse.
Late resistance not enough
Georgia Wareham top-scored with 30, but Australia lost their last five wickets for just 12 runs, folding inside 18 overs.
“We ran out of batters,” admits Litchfield
Reflecting on the loss, Litchfield acknowledged the batting group fell short in taking ownership.
“I think just some ownership with the bat. I reckon that’s probably where we fell short. It’s tough to look too much into that game because it was rained out, but I think we started really well. We were still going at eighths… It’s just we ran out of batters,” she said.
She added:
“I think just a bit more ownership as a batting unit, and hopefully we can either set a big score or chase a big score. I think all of us batters have reflected pretty clearly on that and are keen to rectify things on Thursday.”
T20 World Cup preparation in focus
Australia’s recent limited T20I engagements have largely been shaped by preparations for the ODI World Cup. However, with the T20 World Cup approaching, the ongoing series against the India women’s national cricket team — along with upcoming tours to the West Indies and the UK — forms a vital part of their build-up.
Adapting to evolving roles
Litchfield highlighted the adaptability within the Australia women’s national cricket team squad.
“I think a lot of us play T20 cricket all around the year, but we’re all in different spots throughout the year. Some people open, some people bat three, and then in our team, there’s only one three, and there’s only one one. I guess it’s adapting to your new role, but I think for our team, we’re very adaptable.”
She emphasized that players have consistently put the team’s needs above individual preferences, adapting seamlessly amid a hectic international schedule.
Expanding skillset: Wicketkeeping ambitions
Beyond her batting responsibilities, Litchfield has been sharpening her wicketkeeping skills with former Australia captain Tim Paine.
Preparing as backup keeper
With Alyssa Healy nearing retirement and Beth Mooney established as the primary wicketkeeper, Litchfield believes adding another dimension to her game benefits team balance.
“You’ve got to have more strings to your bow. I love fielding, don’t get me wrong, but I think moving forward, I’ve always kept at home back in Orange with the men’s cricket, and keep that skill up if need be. But definitely not trying to take anyone’s spot.”
She noted that having a backup keeper offers selection flexibility, potentially freeing up space for an additional specialist batter or bowler.
Selection experiments continue
Australia also made bold selection calls in the opening match, leaving out experienced campaigners Tahlia McGrath and Megan Schutt. The moves underline the team management’s intent to test combinations and build depth ahead of major global tournaments.
With the series on the line, Australia will look to respond decisively in Canberra — and, as Litchfield insists, with far greater ownership from the batting unit.
Follow MunsifNews24x7 for latest updates.
