Sophie Molineux has been named in both Australia’s ODI and T20I squads for Australia’s home series against Bangladesh and New Zealand respectively. The incumbent Australian captain has a troubled history with injuries and has most recently been racing to regain fitness following a hip injury. A statement from CA read “her involvement will continue to be assessed as she recovers from a hip injury.” Australia have opted for a reduced 14-member squad for both series.
“Sophie has been named in the squad but has been managing a hip injury, so her involvement in the series will continue to be assessed over the coming days,” said National selector Shawn Flegler.
Additionally, Darcie Brown has been ruled out due to a back injury while Lucy Hamilton will miss the Bangladesh ODIs due to a quad strain.
“Lucy suffered a mild quad strain at training, but we’re hopeful she’ll recover in time to be fit and firing for the T20 series.
“Darcie was assessed on her return home from the Australia A tour to India and has a back injury. Her availability for the Women’s Big Bash will be determined over the coming weeks,” added Flegler.
Australia squad: Nicola Carey, Ash Gardner (VC), Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton*, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath (VC), Sophie Molineux (C), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham
*T20I series only
Grace Harris is a notable omission from the squad, with Flegler clarifying that she “remains the frame moving forward.”
“With the T20 squad reduced in size and limited opportunities during the World Cup, Grace Harris is unlucky to miss out on selection,” he said.
Australia vs Bangladesh ODI Series
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| October 9 | 1st ODI | Allan Border Field, Brisbane |
| October 11 | 2nd ODI | Allan Border Field, Brisbane |
| October 14 | 3rd ODI | Allan Border Field, Brisbane |
Australia vs New Zealand T20I series
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| October 18 | 1st T20I | North Sydney Oval, Sydney |
| October 20 | 2nd T20I | North Sydney Oval, Sydney |
| October 22 | 3rd T20I | North Sydney Oval, Sydney |
“These six matches will provide a great challenge for the side following the World Cup, with both Bangladesh and New Zealand presenting different challenges,” said Flegler.