Strano replaces Vlaeminck after pace bowler ruled out on eve of tournament
Off-spinner Molly Strano has earned a last-minute call up to Australia's T20 squad ahead of the World Cup starting on Friday after fast bowler Tayla Vlaeminck was officially ruled out of the tournament.
News broke on Wednesday that Vlaeminck, 21, was in doubt for the tournament after appearing at an official welcome function in a moon boot after picking up a "stress-related foot injury".
Cricket Australia confirmed on Thursday afternoon the extent of Vlaeminck’s injury.
"Vlaeminck reported pain in her foot, with scans revealing a stress response of the third metatarsal and signs of an early stress fracture of the navicular," CA said in a statement.
Head coach Matthew Mott said: "Tayla has been in brilliant form of late and established herself as one of the premier fast bowlers in international cricket. No one ever wants to see a player miss a major tournament in these kinds of circumstances but I have no doubt she will bounce back from this setback and play a leading role in Australian squads for many years to come."
Molly Strano bowls for the Renegades during their semi-final against Brisbane Heat in Brisbane. Credit:Getty Images
Strano has joined the squad ahead of Australia’s tournament opener against India on Friday at Sydney Showground.
The 27-year-old has represented Australia in five T20 internationals since 2017 and was the leading wicket taker in the recent WBBL season.
"We are fortunate to have great depth across Australian cricket and Molly enters the squad in great form having recently been named the domestic player of the year," Mott said.