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Australia captain Alyssa Healy says she isn’t expecting to feel emotional as she prepares for the final match of her international career. The wicketkeeper-batter will play her last game in the one-off pink-ball Test against India at the WACA Stadium. Australia currently lead the multi-format series 8–4, and the team will be hoping to give their captain a winning farewell.
Speaking to reporters before the match, Healy said she feels more excited than sad about what lies ahead. She reflected on her long career and said she feels grateful for the journey she has had in cricket.
“I've really enjoyed the last 20 years of cricket, and we'll wait and see what unfolds next, which is more exciting. We'll wait and see what unfolds next, which is more exciting than anything else.
“I've been very aware that not everybody gets to retire on their own terms, and this is kind of just a really cool opportunity to finish here at home and in a Baggy Green. It's not something I would have chosen to have done, but I guess to have that opportunity is very special, very unique.
Healy added that she is fortunate to be able to step away from international cricket on her own terms. Many players do not get that chance, she said, which makes this moment even more special. Finishing her career at home while wearing the Baggy Green is something she values deeply.
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The Australian captain recently signed off from ODI cricket in style with a brilliant 158 in Hobart. Now she has one more opportunity to chase a Test century before calling time on her international career. Interestingly, the WACA is also the ground where she came heartbreakingly close to a hundred two years ago against South Africa, falling just one run short.
Healy said she is not focusing on personal milestones but on helping the team win. If a hundred comes along the way, she would welcome it, but the main goal remains contributing to Australia’s success.
"I'm not going out there to make a duck. So, if three figures come up, then so be it. But at the end of the day, I just want to contribute to a team success, and what that looks like, we'll wait and see."
For the next four days, her full attention will be on helping Australia secure the series and finish her career on a high. Healy also said she feels in good form and hopes she can carry that into the pink-ball Test.
She admitted the series against India has been competitive, but with Australia holding an 8–4 lead, the team is pleased with where they stand. Now, the aim is to go out, perform well, and get the job done in the final match.
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