Hobart, Feb 27 (NationPress) Left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux has been sidelined for the remainder of the multi-format series against India due to lower back pain, as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) on Friday.

In a statement released shortly after the second ODI toss at the Bellerive Oval, CA announced, "Sophie Molineux has experienced some lower back pain and will not be available for the remainder of the series. She will continue to be monitored ahead of the upcoming tour to the West Indies."

To fill her spot, seam-bowling all-rounder Nicola Carey will step in for her 24th ODI match, making her return to the format since the victorious 2022 ODI World Cup in New Zealand against Pakistan in Mount Maunganui.

Sophie was expected to lead the Australian team across formats after Alyssa Healy retires from international cricket following the series against India. She had previously captained the team during the T20I series, where Australia won the second match but lost the first and third.

Despite her injury history, Australian selectors have supported her leadership and cricketing skills. However, this latest lower back injury marks another setback in a series of injuries Sophie has faced over the past four years, including a stress fracture in her foot that ruled her out of the 2022 Ashes, ODI World Cup, and Commonwealth Games, followed by a ruptured ACL.

After returning to the national side in early 2024, Sophie encountered another knee injury in December, which kept her out for most of 2025. During last year’s ODI World Cup, she played in only four out of Australia’s seven matches due to ongoing knee management. Currently, she joins Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth on Australia’s expanding injury roster.

Alyssa expressed disappointment over the news, stating, "The Sophie Molineux news today was a bit of a shock for everyone and a disappointing one for her. Hopefully, we can rally around those three and give them the support they need moving forward." Decisions regarding Ellyse and Kim’s injuries are expected early next week.

Former Australia batter Mel Jones commented on Fox Cricket, raising concerns about Sophie’s fitness as captain. "This situation not only impacts her performance in the series but also raises questions about her suitability for the captaincy of Australia," she said.

"While her cricketing acumen is highly regarded, the pressing issue remains whether she can maintain her fitness to stay with the team, which is a significant concern for Australian management and the squad."