MeganSchutt – Veteran Pacer Marks Strong Comeback in India ODI
MeganSchutt – Australia’s experienced fast bowler Megan Schutt has made an impactful return to the national one-day side, delivering an early breakthrough in the first ODI against India after being recalled due to injury changes in the squad.
Early Strike Sets the Tone
Back in the playing XI after missing the T20I leg of the multi-format series, Schutt wasted little time reminding everyone of her value. Playing at Allan Border Field on Tuesday, the 33-year-old required just two deliveries to make her presence felt. With a sharp inswinger, she trapped India opener Pratika Rawal leg-before, giving Australia early control in the contest.
Schutt’s return came after injuries to senior all-rounder Ellyse Perry and pace option Kim Garth reshaped the lineup. Though she had initially been overlooked for the ODI squad, circumstances created an opportunity — one she seized immediately.
Speaking to reporters at Hobart Airport on Wednesday, Schutt said she had light-heartedly told teammates they would not be able to move on from her so easily. She added that it felt good to be back in the team environment and contributing with the new ball, a role she considers central to her game.
Fulfilling the Opening Bowler’s Role
Schutt explained that striking early is a key responsibility for opening bowlers, particularly during the Powerplay overs when fielding restrictions create both risk and reward. She said she was pleased to generate movement and secure a wicket in that crucial phase.
Her final figures of 2 for 42 from nine overs underlined a disciplined spell. Beyond the immediate match impact, the performance carried statistical significance. The two wickets elevated her past Lisa Sthalekar into third position on Australia’s all-time women’s ODI wicket-takers list. She now trails only Cathryn Fitzpatrick, who claimed 180 wickets, and Ellyse Perry with 166.
Selection Decisions and Squad Rotation
Schutt’s path back into the ODI side had not been straightforward. When selectors announced the squads in January, she was not included in the original one-day group for the India series. While she remained with the broader squad, she did not feature in the three T20 internationals, with Darcie Brown and Kim Garth preferred as pace options.
At the time, national selector Shawn Flegler clarified that the decision was tactical rather than long-term. He indicated that team management aimed to adapt to home conditions and provide additional exposure in the 50-over format to Brown, whose pace offers a different dimension.
However, an injury to Garth — a quad issue that ruled her out of the ODI series — shifted the equation. Schutt was brought back into contention and ultimately into the XI.
Handling Disappointment and Staying Ready
Schutt acknowledged that sitting out the T20Is had been challenging but said the communication from team management was clear. She noted that Brown’s extra pace was considered an important factor against India and accepted that such decisions are part of professional sport.
Despite her disappointment, she emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive presence within the group, supporting teammates and staying prepared for any opportunity. She admitted to having candid conversations with coaching staff when informed of the initial decision but stressed that the focus quickly shifted to being ready when called upon.
Her swift impact in the first ODI suggests that readiness paid off.
Series Poised for Tight Finish
Australia’s squad arrived in Hobart on Wednesday and is scheduled to train at Bellerive Oval ahead of the second ODI on Friday. With the multi-format series level at four points apiece, momentum remains finely balanced.
Schutt’s resurgence adds depth and experience to Australia’s bowling attack at a crucial stage. As the series progresses, her ability to deliver early breakthroughs could play a decisive role in determining the outcome.