Australia Women have officially confirmed Sophie Molineux as Alyssa Healy’s long-term successor across all three formats, signalling a significant leadership transition ahead of a packed international calendar.
The left-arm spinner will begin her captaincy tenure during the T20I leg of the upcoming multi-format home series against India, marking her first assignment at the helm of the national side.
Molineux has been elevated ahead of the current vice-captain, Tahlia McGrath, who will continue in her role, while Ashleigh Gardner has been named a second vice-captain.
The strengthened leadership group reflects Australia’s focus on stability and continuity as the team prepares for life beyond Healy, one of the most influential figures in women’s cricket.
Reacting to her appointment, Molineux described it as a proud moment, acknowledging the legacy left by Healy.
She highlighted the depth of leadership within the squad and expressed excitement about working alongside senior players and emerging talent as the team continues to evolve while staying true to its winning identity.
At 28, Molineux’s rise to the top job comes despite recent injury challenges. She has not featured in T20I or Test cricket since 2024 due to knee issues and was carefully managed during the ODI World Cup.
She also did not complete a full WBBL season with the Melbourne Renegades. However, her domestic leadership credentials proved decisive.
Molineux captained the Renegades to a drought-breaking WBBL title in the 2024–25 season, a campaign that showcased her tactical acumen and ability to inspire her side under pressure.
National selector Shawn Flegler acknowledged that Molineux’s workload will continue to be managed carefully, particularly with major tournaments on the horizon.
He also reaffirmed McGrath’s importance within the leadership group, noting her experience as a stand-in captain across formats, while praising Gardner’s elevation as a move that adds balance and flexibility.
Molineux will lead Australia in the three-match T20I series against India in mid-February before Healy returns to captain the ODI and Test legs of her farewell home summer.
Following that, Molineux will take full charge across all formats on Australia’s tour of the Caribbean, which includes a Test match, before turning her attention to the T20 World Cup in England later this year.
The appointment completes a remarkable chapter in Molineux’s journey, positioning her at the forefront of Australian cricket as the team enters a new era with renewed ambition and leadership depth.
