Beth Mooney has been appointed captain of the Perth Scorchers for the upcoming Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) 12 season, succeeding Sophie Devine, who steps down after a six-year stint in the role. The wicketkeeper-batter, widely regarded as one of the most consistent performers in Australian domestic cricket, takes charge ahead of what will be a title-hungry campaign following the Scorchers' runner-up finish in last season's final.

Mooney's Record at the Scorchers

The 32-year-old has made a formidable case for the captaincy through sheer output. Since joining the franchise ahead of its title-winning WBBL 7 campaign, Mooney has amassed a club-record 3,024 runs in 80 matches for Perth. She is a three-time WBBL champion — having won twice with the Brisbane Heat before claiming a third title with the Scorchers — giving her a depth of experience that few in the competition can match.

Her elevation comes on the back of a standout international season. Mooney was named Player of the Series during Australia's victorious 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign, cementing her status as one of the premier batters in the global game.

Mooney on Taking the Captaincy

'It's an incredible honour and opportunity to be offered the chance to lead Perth Scorchers in WBBL 12. Perth and the Scorchers have become a second home to me, and I've been fortunate to play alongside some amazing teammates and leaders during my time in WA. We've built a strong culture on and off the field and we're incredibly proud to represent the State and the whole Wild West,' Mooney said.

She also paid tribute to her predecessor, adding: 'Soph has done an incredible job over the last six years, and I'll no doubt be picking her brains throughout the season. We have a talented team that is hungry for success — especially after falling just short in last year's decider — so we're itching to step on to the field and put on a show for our members and fans.'

Devine's Legacy and Continued Role

Sophie Devine's departure from the captaincy ends a tenure that spanned six years and delivered the franchise its maiden WBBL championship. The New Zealand all-rounder will remain an integral part of the leadership group, ensuring that her experience and franchise knowledge are not lost as the transition unfolds.

What the Coaching Staff Said

Head coach Becky Grundy was unequivocal in her support for the appointment. 'Beth is an exceptional leader whose actions consistently set the benchmarks for those around her. Her experience at the highest level of the game, combined with her competitiveness, professionalism and genuine care for her teammates, make her the ideal person to lead this group,' Grundy said.

Grundy also acknowledged Devine's contribution: 'Soph has been an exceptional leader, our first championship captain and a huge driver of our fantastic team culture. We're grateful for the enormous amount she contributed to the role, and I look forward to working closely with her and Beth again this season as we target the Club's second championship.'

What to Watch This Season

With Mooney at the helm and Devine remaining in a senior leadership capacity, the Scorchers enter WBBL 12 with arguably their most experienced leadership structure yet. The squad will be motivated by the near-miss of last season's decider, and Mooney's dual role as captain and premier batter will be central to any title push. How the team navigates the captaincy transition in the heat of a knockout competition will be one of the defining storylines of the season.