Cricket Australia announced the squad for the upcoming Women's ODI World Cup 2025, which is scheduled to start from September 30. Alyssa Healy, who made his cricketing comeback, is set to lead the side and left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux also returned to the side after a long injury layoff. Molineux went under the knife earlier this year in January, missed much of the past year, but has been a trusted spin option in white-ball cricket whenever fit.
She will most likely to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against India. However, she will be a part of the Alyssa Healy-led side in the mega event.
"Sophie Molineux is progressing well in her return from a knee injury, and we anticipate she'll be available for the World Cup," Australia team physio Kate Beerworth said. "Alyssa Healy made a strong return in the recent 'A' series, and we're pleased with where she's at, with Georgia Wareham also back to full training following her adductor injury during the Hundred."
National selector Shawn Flagler said the vast experience of the squad would be beneficial in tackling what is certain to be a difficult challenge.
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“A World Cup in India is one of cricket’s biggest assignments, but we believe this group is up for the challenge,” he said as quoted by Fox Cricket.
“The valuable experience the squad has gained from several sub-continent tours in recent years, as well as exposure through the Women’s Premier League will be beneficial in tackling the unique demands of Indian conditions.
“Across the winter we’ve seen some terrific performances right through the group - whether that be through the Australia A series, The Hundred or domestic cricket in England - with players personalising their preparations which looks to have put them in good stead.
“Nicole Faltum and Charli Knott continue to impress and will join the squad for the three ODIs as part of their ongoing development, before returning home for the opening rounds of the WNCL.
“The extended nature of an ODI World Cup can be a challenge, and we believe this group has the depth and versatility to meet those demands.”
Molineux is one of the five players in the Australia squad who have been included for the first time in the 50-over World Cup squad. Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham, and Kim Garth are the other four. Grace Harris, if she managed to get into the playing XI, could feature in her first-ever ODI World Cup game after having been an unused member of Australia's title-winning squad in 2022 in New Zealand.
Defending champions Australia will start their campaign against New Zealand on October 1 and the clash will take place at Holkar Stadium in Indore.
Australia squad: Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham