By News Editor 
Australia’s talented fast bowler, Tayla Vlaeminck, is focused on leaving behind a string of injuries and making a big impact at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. After battling numerous injuries since her international debut in 2018, Vlaeminck is set to re-establish herself as a key player in Australia’s pace attack.
Having debuted against Pakistan in Kuala Lumpur and made a sole appearance at the 2018 T20 World Cup in the West Indies, the now 25-year-old is more prepared and determined than ever. With a strong domestic season under her belt and a successful return to international cricket during Australia’s tour of Bangladesh earlier this year, Vlaeminck feels she’s ready for the challenge.
Reflecting on her journey, Vlaeminck admitted this World Cup feels more significant than her first. “It feels so different to the first time… This one means a lot more. The work that has gone in behind the scenes and the hard hours of rehab with this as the goal… it’s a really cool feeling,” she wrote in her column for Cricket Australia.
Despite the fierce competition for spots in Australia’s bowling line-up, with seasoned pacer Megan Schutt, rising star Darcie Brown, and emerging quick Kim Garth all vying for selection, Vlaeminck welcomes the challenge. She is determined to play a significant role in helping Australia chase an unprecedented seventh T20 World Cup title.
Acknowledging the difficulty of their group, which includes strong teams like India, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Pakistan, Vlaeminck emphasized the pressure and unpredictability of the tournament. “We’re in a tough group – Alyssa Healy’s called it the ‘group of death’… But when it comes to a World Cup, anything is on the cards. It’s going to be a really close World Cup, and if we want to make it four in a row, we’re going to have to be playing our best cricket,” she added.
With her renewed mindset and growing maturity, Vlaeminck is ready to contribute to Australia’s quest for yet another T20 World Cup triumph.
Victoria Hamilton