Sophie Molineux has been appointed as Australia’s new all-format cricket captain, succeeding the retiring Alyssa Healy.
The 28-year-old Victorian spinner will lead the team for the first time in the upcoming T20I series against India in mid-February.
Despite her recent injury struggles, Molineux’s successful captaincy of Melbourne Renegades to their maiden WBBL title proved instrumental in her elevation to the national role, with selectors backing her leadership qualities over more experienced candidates.
Molineux’s Leadership Journey
The left-arm spinner’s appointment comes as a surprise, given her limited recent international action due to knee injuries. However, her drought-breaking WBBL triumph with the Renegades in 2024-25 demonstrated her tactical acumen and man-management skills.
Molineux will lead Australia across all formats following Healy’s retirement, though selectors have confirmed they’ll manage her workload carefully, meaning she won’t feature in every match.
Tahlia McGrath retains her vice-captaincy position, while Ashleigh Gardner joins as second vice-captain, strengthening the leadership group. Both will serve as capable stand-ins when Molineux is rested.
Squad Changes and Strategic Shifts
The selection panel has made notable changes for the India series. Veteran pacer Megan Schutt has likely played her final ODI after being omitted from the 50-over squad, while legspinner Alana King was dropped from the T20I team following a difficult WBBL campaign.
In positive news, allrounder Nicola Carey returns after outstanding domestic form, set to play her first international since 2022.
Young left-arm quick Lucy Hamilton, 19, receives her maiden Test call-up, offering a fresh dimension to Australia’s bowling attack as they build toward the T20 World Cup in England.
Australia T20I squad against India
Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux (capt), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham
