Australia has confirmed its 15-player squad for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, with the notable inclusion of all-rounder Sophie Molineux, who is on the comeback trail from a long-term knee injury.
Molineux, a left-arm spinner and valuable lower-order batter, has not played a competitive match since last December. After undergoing surgery in January, her rehabilitation has been managed with the World Cup in mind. Team officials have expressed confidence in her recovery, indicating she is expected to be available for the tournament, which begins next month in India and Sri Lanka.
Her return is a significant boost for the defending champions, given her proven effectiveness in Asian conditions. In a limited number of appearances on the continent, Molineux has demonstrated a particular knack for taking wickets on slower pitches.
The squad announcement also brought positive news on the fitness of captain Alyssa Healy, who is said to have overcome the foot issues that plagued her previous season. Spinner Georgia Wareham, who recently sustained an adductor strain, has also been cleared and named in the group.
Among the new faces is 22-year-old batter Georgia Voll, who earned her spot following a breakout domestic summer. The squad also features several players, including Phoebe Litchfield and Kim Garth, who are set to make their debuts in the 50-over World Cup after previous experience in the T20 format.
Should Molineux not be fully fit in time, uncapped spinner Charli Knott has been identified as the likely replacement.
Australia will begin its title defense against New Zealand on October 1st. The team is aiming to become the first to win back-to-back Women’s ODI World Cups since the Australian sides of the late 20th century secured three consecutive titles.
