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Australia Women’s Cricket has faced a massive setback as all-rounder and captain-to-be Sophie Molineux has been ruled out of the ongoing multi-format series against India Women. The 28-year-old is struggling with "lower back pain," leaving her participation in upcoming tours in doubt.
The Injury Update: What Happened to Sophie Molineux?
Molineux, who recently played the series opener in Brisbane (taking 1-17), was notably absent during the second ODI in Hobart. A official media release from Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that the star player is suffering from back soreness.
While her immediate focus is recovery, CA has indicated that her fitness will be monitored closely ahead of the West Indies series next month.
A Major Blow to Australia’s Leadership Transition
This news comes at a critical time for the Australian camp. Last month, Molineux was named the successor to legendary captain Alyssa Healy, who is retiring after this India series.
- Molineux was expected to be the deputy for Healy’s final international game (the one-off Test).
- Earlier in the series, she successfully led the team in three T20Is while Healy was sidelined.
- "The Sophie Molineux news today was a bit of a shock for everyone and a disappointing one for her," said Alyssa Healy at the toss.
Molineux’s History with Injuries
Unfortunately, Molineux is no stranger to the sidelines. Her career has been a brave battle against recurring fitness issues:
- 2022: Missed the Ashes, ODI World Cup, and Commonwealth Games (Foot injury).
- 2023: Missed the T20 World Cup (ACL injury).
- 2025: Managed carefully during the ODI World Cup following a knee surgery.
Who Will Lead Australia Now?
With Molineux out and Healy retiring, the leadership mantle is expected to fall on vice-captains Ash Gardner or Tahlia McGrath. The team is already dealing with a depleted squad, as stars like Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth are also nursing injuries.
