Sophie Molineux takes break from WBBL to focus on mental health – The Guardian

Melbourne Renegades coach Tim Coyle has said Sophie Molineux, 21, has the clubs full support. Photograph: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images

Australia and Melbourne Renegades all-rounder Sophie Molineux is the latest cricketer to take a break from the sport to focus on her mental health. The Renegades announced on Friday that Molineux would miss this weekends WBBL derby clash with the Melbourne Stars in Ballarat.

Elite mens players Glenn Maxwell, Will Pucovski and Nic Maddinson have also recently stepped away from the sport for mental health reasons. Renegades coach Tim Coyle said Molineux, 21, had the clubs full support.

Sophie knows her teammates and the Renegades coaches and support staff are always there for her, Coyle said. Well give Sophie the time, space and any support she needs.

Molineux made her Test debut this year in Australias victorious Ashes campaign in England. She will also continue working with Pip Inge, the Australia womens team doctor.

Sophie has made the decision to take a break from cricket and we are providing her with the support she needs, Inge said. The welfare of our players is a priority and we are proud of the brave decision by Sophie to step away from the game.

Makinley Blows has been brought into the Renegades squad for this weekends match. The Renegades currently sit fifth on the WBBL table with four matches of the regular season remaining.

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Sophie Molineux takes break from WBBL to focus on mental health - The Guardian