Alanna Kennedy and Mary Fowler have each been included in Australia’s provisional World Cup squad ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

The Matildas are co-hosting the latest instalment of the tournament with New Zealand, having reached the round of 16 in 2019.

They have never progressed beyond the quarter-final stage but, having ended European champions England’s 30-match unbeaten run in April, Kennedy, Fowler and co. will have their sights set on going the distance.

Our City duo are joined by Hayley Raso in the 29-player shortlist, with the winger announcing she would be leaving the Club on the expiry of her contract this summer.

Fowler enjoyed a successful first season in England after moving from French side Montpellier last year, grabbing five goals and three assists in 22 appearances, seven of which were starts.

Her Australian compatriot Kennedy had her campaign frustrated by injury, but she was still able to demonstrate her quality from the heart of defence across seven appearances in all competitions, being rewarded with a contract extension in March 2023.

The City pair’s tournament begins on the opening day, with the Matilda’s hosting the Republic of Ireland in Sydney on Thursday 20 July.

The confirmed Australia squad will see six players cut from the provisional list, and will be announced in the coming weeks.