Sophie Molineux Makes Triumphant Comeback, Earns Central Contract for Exhilarating 2024-25 Season
Molineux’s Impressive Performances Earn Her a Central Contract
Sophie Molineux, who had been plagued by injuries in 2022 and lost her contract, was reinstated into the national squad for February’s one-off Test match against South Africa. The 26-year-old delivered standout performances in the T20 and ODI formats, instantly becoming an indispensable asset for the team.
Recapping her ODI comeback at Mirpur, Molineux claimed 3-10 in her spell—an exceptional feat indeed. Her contributions to the team yielded outstanding results, with the team sweeping the T20 and ODI series in both formats.
Cricket Australia’s announcement comes after Molineux’s impressive performances in the recent tour of Bangladesh and her successful stint at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
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Diverse and Multi-Skilled Roster in Central Contracts
CA’s head of performance and national selector, Shawn Flegler, expressed his delight at offering Molineux a contract for the upcoming season. The contract, extending to the Women’s Ashes, aims to build on the success of the team’s recent victories.
The central contracts feature a diverse and multi-skilled roster, highlighting the depth and variety of talents at the squad’s disposal. Among those included in the 17-strong list are:
- Darcie Brown
- Ashleigh Gardner
- Kim Garth
- Heather Graham
- Grace Harris
- Alyssa Healy
- Jessica Jonassen
- Alana King
- Phoebe Litchfield
- Tahlia McGrath
- Sophie Molineux
- Beth Mooney
- Ellyse Perry
- Megan Schutt
- Annabel Sutherland
- Tayla Vlaeminck
- Georgia Wareham
A notable absence from the list is former skipper Meg Lanning, who announced her retirement following the England series last year.
Earning Central Contracts through Upgrade Points
Understandably, Cricket Australia’s contract selection adheres strictly to stipulations outlined in the MOU between CA and the players’ union. The contract grantees fall within the allowed range of 15 to 18 players prescribed by the agreement.
Untapped potential lies in players yet to secure the coveted central contract. Through the accruement of upgrade points, diligent performers within the team can earn their rightful place among the 18-strong squad.
The Journey to Earning a Central Contract
The journey to earning a central contract commences from the ground up—beginning with club cricket, played with the same unyielding enthusiasm and unpredictability as beach cricket and blind cricket. Similarly, the allure of 100-ball cricket lives on, keeping the spirit of cricket alive in players and spectators from all walks of life.
Anticipation for the 2024-25 Season and Beyond
And so, the 2024-25 season awaits, with the Women’s Ashes on the horizon, while the entire cricket community anticipates the T20 World Cup, fully immersed in the excitement brought by countless thrilling matches.
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