Allrounder is new Australian women's cricket captain

Australia's new women's cricket captain Sophie Molineux says she's grateful for the trust bestowed on her.

Molineux takes over from Alyssa Healy, who will retire in March, with Ash Gardner elevated to share the vice-captaincy with incumbent Tahlia McGrath.

"It's a real honour ... and something I'm incredibly proud of," allrounder Molineux said on Thursday.

"Especially following on from Alyssa, who's had such a huge impact on this team and the game.

"We've got a really strong group with plenty of natural leaders, alongside a lot of exciting talent coming through.

"And I'm really looking forward to working together as we keep evolving and pushing ourselves to the next level, while staying true to the identity that makes this team so special.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the trust that's been shown in me."

The 28-year-old Victorian was described as an outstanding leader by Cricket Australia's women's cricket head of performance, Shawn Flegler.

"We are thrilled for her to take on the role," he said.

"Sophie is highly respected within Australian cricket, and her resilience, composure and proven domestic leadership makes her the right person to lead the team into a new era."

Flegler said Molineux's workload would be closely monitored, with a focus on key tournaments and international series.

"Tahlia McGrath remains vice-captain, recognising her significant leadership contribution under Alyssa Healy," he said.

"Tahlia has acted as stand-in captain on 16 occasions across formats, providing consistency and stability.

"Ash Gardner has been elevated to vice-captain alongside Tahlia, strengthening the team's leadership group.

"Ash and Tahlia provide complementary skills in support of Sophie and are also both capable of leading the team as stand-in captain if required."

Molineux will take the reins for a three-match T20 series against India starting on February 15, with three 50-over clashes to follow, before a one-off Test against the Indians in Perth from March 6.