Blackwell sees Australia role for Nicola Carey in World Cup quest

In an attempt to replenish an empty World Cup trophy cupboard, Alex Blackwell has asked Australia's selectors to think about giving Nicola Carey a surprising recall.

Since turning down a national contract in 2023 to spend the preseason at home rather than as a periphery player on the road Carey has not represented Australia. She has participated in 23 ODIs and 27 T20Is overall.

Carey who is currently 32 years old, has been among the WBBL's most reliable players in recent years and has contributed to the Hobart Hurricanes' championship run this summer.

At the same time Australia has lost both the T20 and ODI World Cups after being eliminated in the semi-finals.

With just six T20 matches left before June's T20 World Cup in England next month, Australia will intensify their preparations.

Following her victory as player of the final in the Women's Hundred at Lord's last year, former Australia captain Blackwell thought Carey should be brought in.

Blackwell, who was inducted into Cricket NSW's Hall of Fame this week, stated, "If I were a selector, I would ask her what her views would be and get her in the camp." "That final will also take place at Lord's if we hope to win a World Cup final in England in a few months.

"I've never seen her play better, and she's had an amazing WBBL. The new ball is swinging now that she has it. I would remark, "Finish them for us," and toss her the old ball.

She can now bowl with the new ball and get it swinging, though. She also bats really well. Great in the field, left-handed. She has won numerous titles.

When asked about Blackwell's remarks, Alyssa Healy, the captain of Australia, responded that she would be happy to have Carey rejoin the team.

"I completely understand [her contract decision]," Healy stated. "Since making that choice, she has been incredibly consistent... She has been playing exceptionally well. Although we have a thousand all-rounders, it wouldn't be a bad idea to include a lefty.

Given that Carey would probably play a similar role to low confidence all rounder Tahlia McGrath Blackwell's remarks come at an intriguing moment.

Since 2022 McGrath has served as Australia's vice captain 15 times. Healy's replacement will eventually need to be chosen.

The other main contender is Ashleigh Gardner who was named captain of the Sydney Sixers this summer. Other young players in charge of WBBL teams are Phoebe Litchfield and Annabel Sutherland.

There are a few options, and it's wonderful to see Ash and Phoebe have WBBL-level prospects. Both would be excellent options," Blackwell stated. It's not always necessary to choose for ten years. Captaincy for a short time is an option. If she can regain her form, [Tahlia] has what it takes to lead a side. That is also a feasible choice.