Sophie Molineux has made a strong return to Cricket Australia‘s central contract list after an impressive comeback across formats. Molineux, who was dropped from the list two years ago due to injuries, has made a successful return to Test, ODI, and T20I cricket over the last two months. Her performances earned her an upgrade to a contract before the confirmation of the 17 names in the 2024-25 group.
Molineux’s comeback began in the Test against South Africa in Perth. She was named Player of the Series in the T20I series against Bangladesh, where she took six wickets at an average of 8.33. In the ODIs against Bangladesh, she took 3 for 10 on her return to the side.
Her return has seen her force the experienced Jess Jonassen out of the squad, although Jonassen has retained her contract. The only player to drop off the list from last year is the retired Meg Lanning.
“We’re really pleased to be able to offer Soph a contract after her successful return to the side this summer,” said national selector Shawn Flegler. “She’s shown a great deal of resilience to get back to full fitness and she’ll play an important role next summer.”
The contract list includes players like Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, and others. Players not initially awarded contracts can earn upgrades throughout the year based on their performances.
Australia women’s team faces a busy season ahead, including the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh and the multiformat Ashes next January. They will host New Zealand for T20Is before the World Cup, followed by a return series in December, and also host India for three ODIs.
Australia Women’s Contract List 2024-25:
- Darcie Brown
- Ashleigh Gardner
- Kim Garth
- Heather Graham
- Grace Harris
- Alyssa Healy
- Jess Jonassen
- Alana King
- Phoebe Litchfield
- Tahlia McGrath
- Sophie Molineux
- Beth Mooney
- Ellyse Perry
- Megan Schutt
- Annabel Sutherland
- Tayla Vlaeminck
- Georgia Wareham
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