Sophie Molineux Ruled Out Of Women's Ashes

Australia allrounder Sophie Molineux will be missing in action during the multi-format women's Ashes, starting with the ODIs on January 12. Molineux, who led Melbourne Renegades to the WBBL title earlier this month while managing a knee issue, pulled up sore after the recent India series and missed the three-match ODI series in New Zealand last week. She now needs surgery on the knee which will lay her low for a while.

CA Physiotherapist On Sophie Molineux

"Sophie Molineux is set to go for a left knee surgery following which we will further plan her return to the game," team physiotherapist Kate Beerworth said.

Australia squad (ODIs and T20Is): Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris (T20s only), Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath (vc), Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham

Australia captain Alyssa Healy returned to the game after the injury, which came as a promising sign for Australia ahead of their Ashes. Healy though, did return for the New Zealand ODI's but purely as a batter with the wicket-keeping duties being done by Beth Mooney.

Shawn Flegler On Healy

"It was good to see Healy back in action after the injury against a strong New Zealand side, I also enjoyed watching the other batters from the group carrying on their form from the recently concluded India series" Cricket Australia's Head of Performance (Women's Cricket) and National Selector, Shawn Flegler quipped.

Australia has also called up Georgia Voll for her first Ashes assignment. Voll had a great 3-match ODI series against the touring Indian team where she scored 173 runs in 3 matches including a magnificent ton in the 2nd ODI.

Flegler On Georgia Voll

"it was unfortunate for Georgia to not get a place in the New Zealand series, however, she has proved herself with the recent performances against India, she'll be a perfect option as reserve batter if required in the Ashes," Flegler said.

After the ODIs from January 12 to 17 and the T20Is from January 20 to 25, Australia and England will play a historic Test match at the MCG from January 30.