New Delhi, March 4: The highly anticipated pink-ball Test match between the women’s teams of India and Australia is set to take place on March 6 at the WACA Ground. Matlan Brown is eagerly looking forward to this encounter against India. Even if she does not get to play her first international match, the pace bowler is fully prepared to make her return to the Australian team.
The 28-year-old Brown was included in the squad as a late replacement after Kim Garth was ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. This marks Brown’s return to the Australian team for the first time since 2021, following an impressive domestic season where her pace caught everyone’s attention.
Competition for a spot in the playing eleven is intense. Brown’s selection is uncertain, as she faces competition from established fast bowler Darcy Brown and young left-arm seamer Lucy Hamilton, who made her ODI debut last week.
After learning in January that she was on standby for the Test, Brown has maintained her workload and match preparation in anticipation of a potential call-up.
Upon arriving in Perth on Tuesday, Brown shared her excitement with the Scoop Podcast, stating, “It has been very thrilling. I received the news over the phone. It feels great to know that all my hard work is truly paying off, and I am very proud. Whether I play or not, I think this is a fantastic opportunity, and I am excited to be back with the group.”
Brown added, “I was informed before this tour that I was on standby, so I have been training and ensuring that my workload is substantial. If I am selected, I want to be fully prepared physically for this Test match, which I have been working on during preseason and throughout this season.”
The multi-format series currently favors the host team, which leads 8-4. India won the three-match T20I series 2-1, bringing the total score to 4-2. However, Australia secured six points by defeating the world champions India 3-0 in the three-match ODI series, gaining an advantage over the visitors.
If Australia manages to draw or win the Test match, they will claim the multi-format series. Conversely, if India wins the pink-ball Test, the series will end in an 8-8 tie, and the trophy will be shared between the two countries.
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