In a move that has surprised many cricket fans, Sophie Molineux has been appointed as the full-time successor to Alyssa Healy as captain of the Australian women’s cricket team. The 28-year-old Victorian spinner will take the reins across all formats, marking a significant shift in leadership as the team prepares for a massive home series against India and the upcoming T20 World Cup in England.
While Molineux’s appointment might seem like a “left-field” choice—considering her recent battles with a knee injury that kept her out of T20I and Test cricket for much of late 2024—her leadership credentials are undeniable. Her tactical brilliance was on full display during the 2024-25 WBBL season, where she captained the Melbourne Renegades to a historic, drought-breaking title. It’s this proven ability to lead under pressure that convinced national selectors she is the right person to guide Australia into its next chapter.
Australia’s New Leadership Structure and the India Series
The leadership transition will be a phased process. Molineux will first lead the side in the three-match T20I series against India starting in mid-February. However, the legendary Alyssa Healy isn’t stepping away just yet; she will return to captain the side one last time during the ODI series and the final Test match at the WACA in March, serving as a grand farewell to her storied career. Once Healy officially retires, Molineux will assume full control for the multi-format tour of the Caribbean and the T20 World Cup in June.
To support Molineux, Cricket Australia has bolstered the leadership group. Tahlia McGrath retains her role as vice-captain, offering stability after having stepped in as captain 16 times previously. Joining her is Ashleigh Gardner, who has been elevated to a second vice-captaincy role. This “triple-threat” leadership team is designed to provide depth and flexibility, especially since selectors plan to manage Molineux’s workload carefully to protect her from further injury.
Squad Shake-ups: Notable Returns and Fresh Faces
The announcement also brought several significant changes to the playing roster. One of the most talked-about returns is that of Nicola Carey. The Tasmania and Hobart Hurricanes all-rounder has forced her way back into both white-ball squads after a three-year absence, thanks to dominant performances in domestic and franchise leagues. On the flip side, leg-spinner Alana King has been omitted from the T20I squad following a lean WBBL run, though she remains in the ODI and Test setups.
The pace attack is also seeing a changing of the guard. Veteran quick Megan Schutt appears to be nearing the end of her international career after being left out of the ODI and Test squads. In her place, 19-year-old left-arm sensation Lucy Hamilton has earned her maiden international call-up for the Test match. National selector Shawn Flegler highlighted Hamilton’s unique left-arm angle and high ceiling as key reasons for her inclusion, signaling Australia’s intent to invest in the next generation of fast-bowling talent.
