Beth Mooney replaces Sophie Devine as Perth Scorchers women captain

Beth Mooney has replaced veteran allrounder Sophie Devine as captain of Perth Scorchers ahead of the upcoming Women's Big Bash League season. Devine enjoyed a successful stint as skipper, leading the Scorchers to their maiden WBBL title in 2021-22 with victory over Adelaide Strikers in the final.

Mooney, the Scorchers' leading run-scorer with 3,024 runs in 80 WBBL appearances, paid tribute to Devine's leadership and said she would continue to seek her advice throughout the season.

"Perth and the Scorchers have become a second home to me, and I've been fortunate to play alongside some amazing team-mates and leaders during my time in WA," Mooney said in a statement. "We've built a strong culture on and off the field, and we're incredibly proud to represent the state.

"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 get back on the field."

Scorchers were also in contention for the title last season but fell agonisingly short, losing to Hobart Hurricanes in the final. However, head coach Becky Grundy believes the side has a genuine chance of lifting the trophy under Mooney's leadership.

"Soph has been an exceptional leader, our first championship-winning captain, and a huge driver of our fantastic team culture," Grundy said. "We're grateful for the enormous contribution she made in the role, and I look forward to working closely with both her and Beth again this season as we target the club's second championship.

"Beth is an exceptional leader whose actions consistently set the benchmark for those around her. Her experience at the highest level of the game, combined with her competitiveness, professionalism and genuine care for her team-mates, makes her the ideal person to lead this group."