New Delhi, April 8 (NationPress) Australia’s chief selector, Shawn Flegler, has pointed out that Sophie Molineux’s initial journey as captain has been far from ordinary, highlighting her ongoing back issues as a significant challenge. Nonetheless, he supports her appointment as the leader for all formats.

Molineux took over from Alyssa Healy earlier this year, gradually stepping into the captaincy role, starting with the T20I series against India and then assuming full-time responsibilities during the West Indies tour after Healy's retirement. Regrettably, a stress reaction in her back interrupted these plans, greatly reducing her participation in the Caribbean series.

The allrounder was unable to bowl and played only as a specialist batter in the T20Is and the first ODI before being rested for the rest of the tour. Flegler referred to this as a setback during a critical transition.

Despite these challenges, the selectors are keeping their long-term sights on the approaching T20 World Cup, which is a spotlight on an already busy international schedule that also includes the 2027 Champions Trophy and the 2028 Olympics.

"We established from the outset that the T20 World Cup was our main focus, and decisions would revolve around that," said Flegler during the announcement of the 2026-27 contracts list.

"The stress reaction during the Indian series was not ideal, but such things occur. We had to make choices—whether to push through or pull back a bit. We opted to pull back, but we felt it was essential for her to remain with the group in the West Indies. She’s on course for the T20 World Cup, which was our initial goal. It's fair to say this situation is unprecedented. But we believe she was the best candidate for several reasons: her on-field experience, past successes, and her vision for the team as well as her connection off the field.

"We will be evaluated on this decision over time, but we strongly feel it was the right call at that moment. I think she has performed admirably in the matches she has captained and in her presence around the team thus far. How that translates in the T20 World Cup and beyond remains to be seen," he added.

Flegler emphasized that Molineux’s participation in the World Cup will depend on her all-round abilities, dismissing the idea of her playing solely as a batter.

"We’re not considering her as a batting captain. She will be playing as an allrounder and will be available to bowl," Flegler clarified.

The selector also highlighted that Molineux’s promotion above other senior players like Tahlia McGrath and Ashleigh Gardner was a result of thorough evaluation, rather than a hasty decision. Both McGrath and Gardner serve as vice-captains, with McGrath stepping in as acting captain during the West Indies tour.

"These discussions have been ongoing for about a year. Sophie was selected as a 20-year-old, and her leadership qualities were recognized early on. Had she not been injured, it’s likely she would have captained a couple of years earlier.

"It’s challenging when you’re not involved in the inner workings; you miss the dynamics of the team and the energy within the group. From an outside perspective, decisions may seem nonsensical, but we are confident internally that this was the right choice for our team at this point. We are prepared to be judged on this in the future," he remarked.

Molineux’s limited bowling participation in the West Indies has complicated Australia’s selection strategy for the World Cup, especially regarding the make-up of their spin attack. Alana King stood out during the T20I series, earning Player of the Series honors, while Georgia Wareham is still viewed as a key option. Gardner further enhances their spin options, leaving selectors with a difficult balancing act.

Weather conditions in England, where the tournament will be held, are expected to greatly influence the final squad, particularly with some matches planned for the morning.

"One factor we need to consider is the weather. We’ve discussed this with Alana as well... she’s certainly made her case. With Sophie’s injury, we have to think about what the best squad composition will be—whether we can accommodate four spinners or if three suffices. Those who miss out will be quite unfortunate, as several players have made compelling cases for selection," Flegler stated.

Australia is expected to finalize their squad early next month, with training camps scheduled in Brisbane before heading to the UK. They will also engage in a warm-up series against South Africa, followed by official ICC practice matches ahead of the prestigious tournament.