Spinner’s Comeback Earns Spot in Australia’s Central Contract List
Cricket Australia unveiled a 17-player contract list on Monday, which includes the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh and a highly anticipated multi-format Ashes series on home turf.
The 26-year-old, who was promoted during Australia’s tour of Bangladesh, retains her spot for the new contract period. Meanwhile, Meg Lanning is no longer on the list following her international retirement in November.
Shawn Flegler, Cricket Australia’s Head of Performance and National Selector, commended Molineux’s determination to secure a place in the Australian XI after recovering from a series of injuries. He also highlighted the depth of the squad ready to represent the country.
“We’re delighted to offer Soph (Molineux) a contract following her successful return to the side this summer. She’s demonstrated remarkable resilience to regain full fitness and she’ll play a crucial role next summer,” Flegler said.
“We believe the list features a significant depth and a variety of skillsets that will be crucial throughout the various series scheduled for 2024-25, including the T20 World Cup and multi-format Ashes series.”
Get a glimpse behind the scenes as Australia’s players celebrate their victory over South Africa in the locker room after the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023.
After their successful tour of Bangladesh, the host nation of the upcoming T20 World Cup, the Australian team will commence preparation training camps from May. They will also host New Zealand for three T20Is in early September.
Post the T20 World Cup, Australia will host India and New Zealand for three ODIs each, before their Ashes series against traditional rivals England from January 12.
Players not included in the initial 17 can earn a contract throughout the year by accruing upgrade points, which are earned after participating in international fixtures.
Cricket Australia’s Contracted Women’s Players for 2024-25:
Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Grace Harris, Alyssa Healy, Jessica Jonassen, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham