‘Nice to be back’ – Sophie Molineux shines on ODI return
Since her debut in 2018, Sophie Molineux had only played nine ODIs before Sunday’s game against Bangladesh, her last appearance being in September 2021 against India.
Despite frequent injuries and the consistent performance of fellow left-arm spinner Jess Jonassen, Molineux made a triumphant return. In the second ODI against Bangladesh, she returned figures of 3/10. Her 10-over spell included an impressive 53 dot balls.
Molineux claimed the crucial wickets of opener Fargana Hoque, captain Nigar Sultana, and Ritu Moni, leading to Bangladesh being bowled out for a mere 97. Australia easily chased this target with six wickets to spare, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ICC Women’s Championship series.
“It’s just nice to be back, to be honest,” Molineux shared with reporters post-game. “Being back on tour and getting a game is really cool. I think all the bowlers performed exceptionally well today, especially the spinners. Getting over the line made it a good day for us.”
Despite her injuries, the 26-year-old has remained a key player in the selectors’ eyes.
“It was a long two years, I learned a lot over those two years,” she added.
“And I’m just happy to be playing cricket. I’m happy to be playing in any colours at the moment and even better to get a game for Australia again.”
Sophie Molineux reacts to her outstanding return to ODI cricket in Dhaka #BANvAUS pic.twitter.com/gZmhktyx2C
ICC Women’s Championship Standings 2022-25
Australia is currently leading the ICC Women’s Championship table with 26 points. Despite having the ODI series in their pocket, Molineux believes the remaining matches on the tour will provide invaluable experience for the team in preparation for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which is set to take place in Bangladesh in September.
“It’s just going to help out both our batting and bowling unit,” Molineux said.
“I think each game we’re playing in different conditions we’re learning and that’s how we’re going to make us a better team.
“So even if it’s not a copy-and-paste pitch to what we’re going to get at the World Cup in a few months’ time, I think just being able to go through these different matches and being able to adjust, communicate and then learn from it is valuable.”