Australia Women’s World Cup 2026 Squad Announced With Darcie Brown Omitted

Australia Women's World Cup 2026 Squad has been announced with fast bowler Darcie Brown missing out on selection for the tournament scheduled from June 12 to July 5. The six-time champions will head into the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 with a largely settled group, featuring only one notable change.

Left-arm seamer Lucy Hamilton has been included in place of Brown, offering a different bowling option. Hamilton, who led Australia at the Under-19 level last year, has already featured at senior level and is regarded as a developing prospect within the setup.

Molineux to Lead Experienced Core

Left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux will captain the side despite recent fitness concerns, with selectors backing her to lead a squad built around experience. Senior players including Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner and Megan Schutt form the core of the group.

The batting lineup also includes Phoebe Litchfield, while Georgia Voll is set to feature in her first World Cup campaign. Perry, who has been part of every edition since 2009, is closing in on a milestone of 50 appearances in the competition.

All-round options remain a key feature, with Grace Harris returning to the squad and Annabel Sutherland back after a break. Nicola Carey, part of the 2020 title-winning side, has also retained her place. Wicketkeeper-batter Tahlia Wilson has been named as a travelling reserve.

Selectors Explain Squad Balance

Australia selector Shawn Flegler said the final group was chosen with conditions and squad balance in mind.

“These squads are never easy to select but we’re confident with the balance and stability we’ve got across the group. It’s an experienced group and one we believe is capable of winning the World Cup," Flegler said.

“Sophie has already made her mark as captain and built a strong connection with the group over the last couple of tours, so we’re looking forward to seeing what this side can achieve under her leadership," he added.

He also addressed Brown’s omission and the decision to include Hamilton.

“Darcie Brown was unlucky to miss out but the decision was based on the conditions we’re expecting and the makeup of the side. With at least six right-arm pace options in the mix and raw pace expected to be less effective, we opted to go with Lucy Hamilton who offers something different as a left-arm quick," he stated.

Group Fixtures and Schedule

Australia have been placed in Group A alongside South Africa, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands. Their campaign begins against South Africa on June 13 in Manchester.

Opponent	Date	Venue
South Africa	June 13	Manchester
Bangladesh	June 17	Headingley
Netherlands	June 20	Hampshire Bowl
Pakistan	June 23	Headingley
India	June 28	Lord’s