Ahead of the 2022 ICC Women's World cup final between Australia and England in Christchurch, Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry's fitness has been a matter of concern as the 31-year-old couldn't feature in the last two games of the competition due to back issues.
However, according to recent reports, Perry could play as a specialist batter in the final against England. Perry also went through some draining training sessions ahead of the final, scheduled on Sunday (April 3) at Christchurch.
Two years back, Perry couldn't play in the knockouts of the 2020 ICC T20 World Cup at home, but the Aussies still managed to win the trophy. This time around, Perry is confident and committed that she will be able to break into the lineup in the final.
Even Australian captain Meg Lanning has stated that their star all-rounder has looked impressive in her fitness test and is on the right path to making it to the final.
"We feel like we'll have a full squad to pick from. Ellyse went through a hard and intense training session yesterday and today and is feeling good," Lanning told reporters during the pre-match conference.
Perry got injured midway against South Africa about a fortnight back and hasn't bowled since then. On the other hand, the Sydney Sixers' stalwart's impressive batting average in the 50-over format gives enough proof of the talent and match-winning capabilities.
"She can surely play as a batter, and at the moment, the plan is to play her as a batter. She hasn't bowled since the last two weeks, and it could be difficult for her to bowl in a final if she hadn't done that," the Aussie captain added.
Perry could replace Annabel Sutherland if the all-rounder is fit to play. The Australians will be confident as they haven't lost a single game in this competition so far and would be looking to win their seventh World Cup title.
On the other hand, England, who are the defending champions, would be determined to stop the Aussie juggernaut. It could be a thrilling encounter between the two arch-rivals