Sophie Molineux takes a break for mental health wellbeing; unlikely to play rest of the WBBL season

Glenn Maxwell recently announced his withdrawal from Australia’s recent series against Sri Lanka for mental-health reasons. Maxwell’s withdrawal received an acknowledgement from Australia coach Justin Langer, captain Aaron Finch, and many other eminent voices that revealed a healthy culture around mental health as an issue. Virat Kohli and Moeen Ali had also backed the Australian’s decision.

Moeen Ali had stated that there’s too much of cricket being played at the moment because of which players are becoming mentally tired. Kohli had heaped rich praise on Maxwell, lauding his courage to step away from the game. The Indian skipper had expressed that players need confidence and clear communication channels to express their emotions about mental health in a better manner.

Shortly after Maxwell, Nic Maddinson and Will Pucovski also withdrew from the Australia ‘A’ team. Following Maxwell’s decision, now another Australian has also stepped away from the game to focus on her mental health and wellbeing. Lately, mental health has emerged as a significant issue in cricket.

Sophie Molineux, who plays for Victorian Spirit in the Women’s National Cricket League and for the Melbourne Renegades in the Women’s Big Bash League, will not travel for her next Women’s Big Bash League fixture against Melbourne Stars on Saturday. Molineux has decided to step away from the game to focus on her mental health and wellbeing. Cricket Australia has also backed her decision and has ensured to help her transition when she’s ready to return back to the game.

Sophie Molineux has played one Test, three ODIs and 17 T20Is in her career

“Sophie has made the decision to take a break from cricket and we are providing her with the support she needs. The welfare of our players is a priority and we are proud of the brave decision by Sophie to step away from the game,” Australia Women’s Team Doctor Pip Inge was quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald.

Molineux has played one Test, three ODIs and 17 T20Is in her career. The 21-year-old had taken eight wickets at an average of 28.37 and amassed 101 runs in 10 WBBL matches this season. Molineux’s side Renegades are currently ranked fifth in the points table. Makinley Blows has been named as Molineux’s replacement in the Renegades squad for their upcoming match.

[interaction id=”5dc6bf20173fc165efba1101″]