Sophie Molyneux: Australia have named the all-rounder as Alyssa Healy’s replacement as captain

Australia has appointed Sophie Molyneux as captain of its women’s national team across all formats, replacing the retiring Alyssa Healy.

Wicketkeeper Healy announced earlier this month that she will retire from all forms of cricket after the upcoming multi-format series against India.

Healy, 35, is not part of the T20 international squad that starts the series, so Molyneux, 28, will coach Australia for the first time in the opening match on February 15.

She would then be Healy’s deputy for the following one-day internationals and the one-off Test in Perth, which would be Healy’s last professional appearance.

“It is a real honor to be named captain of Australia and something I am extremely proud of, especially following Alyssa, who has had a huge impact on this team and the game,” Molyneux said.

“We have a really strong group with a lot of natural leaders, along with a lot of exciting talent coming through. I’m really looking forward to working together as we continue to evolve and push ourselves to the next level, while maintaining the identity that makes this team so special.”

Australia host India in three T20 matches, three ODIs and one Test between February 15 and March 9.