Melbourne, Dec 28
Batter Georgia Voll retains her place in Australia’s squads for next month's Women’s Ashes, but left-arm spin all-rounder Sophie Molineux has been ruled out due to a left knee injury needing surgery.
Sophie had missed Australia’s ODI tour of New Zealand with a knee complaint, an issue which flared up during their 3-0 home series win over India. “Sophie Molineux will undergo left knee surgery next month, following that we will provide further updates on an anticipated return date,” said Kate Beerworth, Australian women’s team physiotherapist.
Australia’s spin-bowling department duties will be handled by off-spin all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner and leg-spinners Georgia Wareham and Alana King, with no room still for left-arm spinner Jess Jonassen.
The Australia squad features 13 players for the opening three ODIs, with all-rounder Grace Harris to join the side for the following three T20Is. Australia will name its Test squad ahead of the historic Day-Night Test match at the MCG, starting on January 30 - the first of its kind at the venue and the first women’s Test match at the MCG since 1948-49.
Georgia’s retention in the squad comes after she made a stunning start to her international career against India, with 173 runs in three matches, including a century at Brisbane, when she filled in for injured skipper Alyssa Healy, who has since returned as a pure batter.