Sophie Molineux Named Australia's New Captain Across All Formats

Australia have named spin-bowling all-rounder Sophie Molineux as the new all-format captain of the women’s national cricket team, days after Alyssa Healy announced her decision to retire from international cricket. The appointment marks a new leadership chapter for the world’s top-ranked side in both ODI and T20 formats.

Molineux, 28, will first take charge of the T20 team when Australia hosts India next month. She will then assume leadership of the one-day and Test sides during Australia’s tour of the Caribbean scheduled for March. The appointment follows Healy’s confirmation earlier this month that she will step away from the game in March, bringing an end to her tenure as captain that began in 2023 after Meg Lanning’s departure.

Calling the role a major honour, Sophie Molineux said she was proud to lead the national side and acknowledged Alyssa Healy’s significant contribution to the team and women’s cricket. Molineux brings prior leadership experience, having captained both Victoria in domestic cricket and the Melbourne Renegades in the Women’s Big Bash League.

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Cricket Australia said the decision reflected confidence in Molineux’s leadership qualities and her understanding of the team’s culture. She steps into the role at a time when Australia continues to dominate women’s cricket globally, backed by a squad rich in experience and emerging talent.

Tahlia McGrath, who had previously filled in for Healy and was widely seen as a potential successor, will continue as vice-captain alongside Ashleigh Gardner. Officials noted that the leadership group remains strong, with multiple senior players capable of guiding the side across formats.

Australia currently holds the number one ranking in both ODI and T20 cricket, and the transition in leadership is aimed at ensuring continuity as the team prepares for a busy international calendar in the coming months.

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