AUS W vs IND W 2026: ‘Can’t get rid of me that easily’ – Megan Schutt makes instant impact after surprise recall

Australian seamer Megan Schutt proved her value once again after making a surprise return to the ODI setup, striking in her very first over against India Women in the first ODI of the three-match series in Brisbane, where the hosts clinched an easy victory. 

Schutt, whose long-term future in Australia’s 50-over plans remains uncertain, was not initially part of the ODI squad. However, injuries to Kim Garth and Ellyse Perry opened the door for a late call-up, prompting the experienced pacer to board an early-morning flight on Monday to join the squad.

Drafted straight into the playing XI, Schutt wasted no time in making her presence felt. With just her second delivery of the innings, she trapped Indian opener Pratika Rawal leg before wicket with a trademark inswinger, setting the tone for a dominant Australian bowling performance. The hosts went on to register a six-wicket victory, levelling the multi-format series 2-2 after India had taken the T20I leg.

Speaking to reporters upon her arrival in Hobart for the upcoming matches, Schutt was in good spirits about her unexpected comeback.

“I’ve been joking with them [the other players] all the time that they can’t get rid of me that easily. Nice to be back in the squad and back in the team as well. Obviously, just making an impact with the new ball is what I was brought in to do. So it was nice to be able to do that and just feel good behind the ball against India,” she was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Schutt, Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker in ODIs ever, has previously indicated that she does not see herself playing until the 2029 ODI World Cup. She had picked up five wickets in six matches during last year’s World Cup in India and earlier admitted that extending her career for another cycle was unlikely. 

It’s obviously disappointing: Schutt on T20I absence

Her T20I position has also come under scrutiny ahead of the upcoming World Cup in England later this year, especially after she did not feature in any of the three T20Is against India. While acknowledging her disappointment, Schutt maintained a professional perspective.

“Extra pace was the main one against the Indian side. And I understand. It’s obviously disappointing sitting on the sidelines, but it’s part of the job that you do … you’ve still got to really support your team and run the drinks well and try not to be too sour about it,” she concluded.

The second ODI of the series will be played on February 27 at the Ninja Stadium, Hobart. The Women in Blue will be looking to level the series, whereas the Aussies would want to beat the reigning world champions.