Australia have included left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux in their 15-player squad for the Women’s ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, with the 26-year-old on course to return from knee surgery in time for the tournament.

Molineux, who has been sidelined since late last year, is still undergoing rehabilitation and may miss the one-day warm-up series against India. Team physio Kate Beerworth, however, expressed confidence in her progress. “Sophie Molineux is progressing well in her return from a knee injury, and we anticipate she’ll be available for the World Cup,” she said.

Fellow spinner Georgia Wareham also returns, having recovered from the adductor injury that forced her to cut short her campaign in The Hundred. The pair form a key part of Australia’s spin attack, expected to play a decisive role on the subcontinent as the reigning champions bid to defend the crown they lifted in New Zealand in 2022.

Captain Alyssa Healy, who recently overcame a foot injury sustained during last year’s Ashes, will lead the side. She underlined her form with a blistering unbeaten 137 off 85 balls against India A last month.

The squad features no major surprises. Grace Harris has taken the final batting place, while young all-rounder Georgia Voll is rewarded with a maiden World Cup call-up following her breakthrough year. She joins Molineux, Wareham, Phoebe Litchfield and Kim Garth as first-time selections for a 50-over World Cup.

National selector Shawn Flegler said the squad was well equipped to meet the challenges of Indian conditions. “A World Cup in India is one of cricket’s biggest assignments, but we believe this group is up for the challenge. The experience gained from recent tours of the subcontinent, as well as exposure through the Women’s Premier League, will be invaluable,” he said.

Uncapped duo Nicole Faltum and Charli Knott will supplement the squad for the three-match ODI series against India, before returning home for the start of the WNCL season.

Australia will begin their campaign against New Zealand in Indore on 1 October.

Australia squad for Women’s ODI World Cup

Alyssa Healy (capt), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham

– Ends