Last Updated on 4 days ago by Charbel Coorey
Left-arm orthodox bowling all-rounder Sophie Molineux has been announced as the Australian women’s new all-format captain. The 28-year-old will begin her stint at the helm in the upcoming three-match T20I series against India.
Sophie will succeed wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy. Healy will retire from international cricket after the multi-format series against the Women in Blue.
Molineux has represented Australia Women in three Tests, 17 ODIs, and 38 T20Is since her debut in 2018. She led her WBBL franchise, Melbourne Renegades, to their first triumph in 2024 and has also been the captain of Victoria since 2022. However, she has not featured in a Test or T20I since 2024.
Molineux has been chosen ahead of all-format vice-captain Tahlia McGrath and senior batting all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner, who has been named as a second vice-captain. The 28-year-old is understandably thrilled to receive the honour and is looking forward to working with what she described as a “really strong group with plenty of natural leaders.”
“It’s a real honour to be named Australian captain and something I’m incredibly proud of, especially following on from Alyssa, who’s had such a huge impact on this team and the game,” she said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
“We’ve got a really strong group with plenty of natural leaders, alongside a lot of exciting talent coming through. And I’m really looking forward to working together as we keep evolving and pushing ourselves to the next level, while staying true to the identity that makes this team so special.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the trust that’s been shown in me, and I’m excited to grow alongside this group of players and see what we can achieve together with Tahlia, Ash, and the rest of the team.”
Reactions: Sophie Molineux unveiled as 21st captain of the Australian women’s team
Given that Molineux is clearly a left-field pick, the news of her appointment as Australia Women’s 21st captain has taken fans by surprise, with many casting doubts on her eligibility for the role.
Check out the reactions below:
