Australia has ushered in a new era of leadership in women's cricket, with Sophie Molineux appointed captain across all formats. This comes just days after Alyssa Healy announced her retirement. Healy will retire from international cricket after the upcoming home series against India. This marks the end of a glorious chapter and the beginning of a new one for the Australian women's team.
Alyssa Healy, who took over the captaincy from the legendary Meg Lanning, will continue to lead Australia in the ODI series and the one-off Test against India in February-March. However, she has opted out of the T20I portion of the series, giving Australia an opportunity to groom a new leader ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup later this year.
Sophie Molineux has been appointed captain of Australia in all formats
Cricket Australia has selected Sophie Molineux to replace Healy across all three formats. This decision reflects a long-term vision, with selectors prioritizing leadership continuity and tactical acumen over mere seniority. Molineux boasts an impressive leadership record, having captained the Melbourne Renegades since 2021. Under her captaincy, the Renegades won the 2024-25 Women's Big Bash League title, further strengthening her claim to a place in the national team. Known for her calm demeanor, sharp cricketing intellect, and ability to lead by example, Molineux has steadily earned respect within the Australian cricket setup.
Sophie Molineux is set to be named Australia's new captain across all formats 👏
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 28, 2026
(via @DanielCherny) pic.twitter.com/6UYF2586YQ
This announcement has come as a surprise to many, particularly given that vice-captain Tahlia McGrath was overlooked for the role. McGrath was widely considered the natural successor, but her recent dip in form is believed to have influenced the selectors' decision. While McGrath remains a key player, the management appears keen to ensure stability and consistent leadership on the field. Healy's retirement marks the end of a remarkable international career. She redefined the role of wicketkeeper-batter, guiding Australia through a successful transition period after Meg Lanning's departure. Her decision to step down gradually has been praised as a selfless move focused on the team's future. With Sophie Molineux taking the reins, Australia is embarking on a new chapter built on fresh leadership, domestic success, and a strong focus on upcoming global tournaments.
Also Read: What would be the consequences if Pakistan boycott the T20 World Cup 2026?
ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule
Venue - Edgbaston T20
SL-W
Venue - Emirates Old Trafford T20
TBC
Venue - Emirates Old Trafford T20
SA-W
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
NZ-W
Venue - Edgbaston T20
TBC
Venue - Edgbaston T20
PK-W
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
SL-W
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
TBC
Venue - Headingley T20
TBC
Venue - Headingley T20
Venue - Edgbaston T20
PK-W
Venue - Headingley T20
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
Venue - The Rose Bowl T20
Venue - Headingley T20
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
SL-W
Venue - Emirates Old Trafford T20
IN-W
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
Venue - Headingley T20
PK-W
Venue - Lords T20
WI-W
Venue - Emirates Old Trafford T20
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
Venue - Emirates Old Trafford T20
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
Venue - Bristol County Ground T20
Venue - Kennington Oval T20
NZ-W
Venue - Lords T20
Venue - Lords T20
IN-W
Venue - Kennington Oval T20
Venue - Kennington Oval T20
Venue - Lords T20
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