5 contenders to replace Alyssa Healy as Australia captain after her retirement from international cricket

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The retirement of Alyssa Healy on January 13, 2026, officially signals the end of an era for Australian cricket. For over fifteen years, Healy was the team’s heartbeat, a relentless wicketkeeper-batter whose aggressive intent at the top of the order redefined modern keeper-bats.

After taking the torch from Meg Lanning, she ensured Australia remained at the global pinnacle, leading with a sharp tactical mind and a fearless persona. Her departure leaves a massive void, not just in her 7,000+ international runs and 275 dismissals, but in the psychological edge she provided the squad. As she exits after the final series against India, the focus shifts to a new leadership chapter. Australia now requires a figure who can manage a transition where veteran legends are stepping away, ensuring the team’s ‘winning DNA’ remains intact. Replacing a character as large as Healy requires a blend of tactical brilliance, individual performance and the authority to lead in high-pressure World Cup finals.

1. Tahlia McGrath

Tahlia McGrath is the most immediate choice to succeed Healy, having served as the national vice-captain and interim leader during Healy’s injury spells. Her qualification is built on being a premier world-class all-rounder who remains remarkably calm under pressure. She has already proven her ability to win titles as a captain in the domestic circuit and has the full respect of the current veteran-heavy squad.

2. Annabel Sutherland

At just 24, Sutherland is the generational talent candidate. Known for a meticulous and professional approach, she is already the cornerstone of the Australian bowling attack and a powerhouse with the bat. Her qualification lies in her maturity; she was identified as a leader at 15 and has been groomed for this moment. She represents a ‘Lanning-style’ appointment – young, dominant and capable of leading for a decade.

Also READ: Meg Lanning picks Alyssa Healy’s successor as Australia’s next ODI captain after heartbreaking CWC 2025 exit

3. Beth Mooney

Beth Mooney offers a ‘steady hand’ approach, ideal if the selectors prefer a bridge between the Healy era and the younger generation. Her qualification is her unparalleled cricketing IQ; as a wicketkeeper, she shares Healy’s tactical vantage point. She is widely considered the ‘toughest’ player in the squad, often performing her best when the team is in a crisis, making her an ideal leader for high-stakes tournaments.

4. Ashleigh Gardner

Ashleigh Gardner is the premier tactical choice, offering an aggressive and modern perspective. Her qualification is her status as the world’s #1 all-rounder, giving her a unique understanding of both bowling rotations and batting tempos. Her appointment would be historic, as she would be the first Indigenous person to captain an Australian cricket team on a permanent basis, reflecting a modern and inclusive era.

5. Phoebe Litchfield

Phoebe Litchfield is the bold choice, representing the face of the future. Her qualification is her fearlessness; she plays a brand of cricket that perfectly mirrors the aggressive intent Healy championed. By appointing her now, Australia would be following the successful blueprint of blooding a captain early to build a dynasty. She is already a global superstar and a marketing powerhouse for the women’s game.

Also READ: Jemimah Rodrigues reveals how Richa Ghosh dismantled Alyssa Healy’s sledge with an unforgettable reply

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.