Australia Calls Up Sophie Molineux for Women’s World Cup Squad

Left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux has made a comeback to the Australian squad after recovering from knee surgery earlier this year. She is slated to participate in the Women’s World Cup 2025, commencing on September 30. Although Molineux is expected to sit out the ODI series against India prior to the tournament, optimism surrounds her readiness for the main event.

The Australian team is further strengthened by the comebacks of Darcie Brown, who had a quad injury, and Georgia Wareham, who was dealing with a groin injury. Alyssa Healy also staged a notable return for the Australia A side last month after battling injuries during the 2024-25 season.

Australia’s squad for Women’s World Cup 2025: Alyssa Healy (c), Tahlia McGrath (vc), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham

“Sophie Molineux is making good progress with her knee recovery, and we expect her to be fit for the World Cup,” remarked Australia team physio Kate Beerworth. “Alyssa Healy’s return in the recent ‘A’ series has been solid, and we’re pleased with her form, while Georgia Wareham has resumed full training following her adductor injury sustained during the Hundred.”

Molineux is among five players marking their debut in an Australian 50-over World Cup squad, alongside Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham, and Kim Garth. Grace Harris may feature in her inaugural ODI World Cup game after not being fielded during Australia’s 2022 title-winning campaign in New Zealand.

Molineux’s return strengthens Australia’s already formidable spin attack, comprising Wareham, Ashleigh Gardner, and Alana King, which will be particularly valuable in subcontinental conditions. In batting, Voll’s consistent domestic performances have secured her first World Cup spot.

For the tri-series of ODIs against India before the World Cup, selectors have bolstered the squad with all-rounder Charli Knott and wicketkeeper-batter Nicole Faltum, forming a 17-member team. They will head back to Australia before the World Cup begins.

“We’ve aimed to cover all scenarios, especially since conditions in India and Sri Lanka may favor spin,” stated National selector Shawn Flegler. “Sophie’s [Molineux] recovery is promising, and we’re confident that she’ll be ready once the tournament kicks off.”

As the reigning champions, having won their seventh ODI World Cup in 2022, Australia will kickstart their title defense against New Zealand on October 1 in Indore.