Sophie Molineux takes break from cricket to deal with mental health

Molineux is the latest Australian cricketer to take time off cricket for mental health reasons — Glenn Maxwell, Will Pucovski and Nic Maddinson had done the same in recent weeks. National women’s team doctor Pip Inge and Renegades coach Tim Coyle extended their support to the all-rounder.

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

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

As Molineux will not make the trip to Ballarat for the Women's Big Bash League fixture against Melbourne Stars on Saturday, Makinley Blows has been named as her replacement in the Renegades squad.