Jess Jonassen has relinquished her role as captain of Brisbane Heat Women, concluding a five-year period in charge of the side. The Queensland stalwart informed Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson of her decision last month after taking time to assess her position and future with the team.
One of the most seasoned figures in Australian domestic cricket, Jonassen assumed the captaincy in 2020, succeeding former skipper Kirby Short. During her tenure, she led the Heat in 81 Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) matches and also captained the Queensland Fire in 30 Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) fixtures. Across this period, the team maintained its competitive edge while also nurturing several emerging players within the squad.
This comes at a notable juncture in Jonassen’s career as she prepares to feature in her 100th WNCL match, scheduled at Allan Border Field on March 14. The landmark underlines her sustained impact on Queensland cricket, both in leadership and playing roles.
Jonassen recently returned to the field against the New South Wales (NSW) Breakers after recovering from shoulder surgery that had curtailed her WBBL campaign earlier in the season. In her absence during the WNCL, wicketkeeper-batter Georgia Redmayne took on captaincy duties and steered the side through those matches. Redmayne will remain in charge for the rest of the ongoing WNCL season while Jonassen concentrates solely on her responsibilities as a player.
Reflecting on her decision, Jonassen explained that it followed careful consideration over recent weeks. She noted that although she had initially intended to continue as captain, the recent tour to New South Wales provided clarity on what would be best for both herself and the team.
She also conveyed appreciation for the chance to lead both the Heat and the Fire over the past five years, acknowledging the faith shown in her by teammates and management. Jonassen added that she is now eager to conclude her career as a senior figure within the group, contributing through experience and support for the next captain.
“I’m very much looking forward to finishing my career as a senior player who leads from within and will support whoever gets the opportunity to lead these teams next,” Jess said.
Jonassen further expressed gratitude to the coaching staff, including Mark Sorell and Jeff Thomas, as well as everyone associated with the teams for their backing during her leadership stint. She also credited her family and her wife Sarah for helping her arrive at the decision, noting that their encouragement assured her that stepping aside was the right step.
Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson commended Jonassen’s leadership and overall contribution, describing her as a key influence within the organisation. He emphasised the positive culture she helped foster within the squad, both on and off the field.
Svenson added that the Queensland group continues to possess strong leadership depth, pointing to Redmayne and a number of rising players such as Charli Knott, Georgia Voll, Sianna Ginger and Lucy Hamilton.
While stepping down signals the close of a significant chapter, Jonassen’s presence in the side remains crucial. As one of the most experienced members of the squad, she is expected to play an important role for both the Heat and the Fire as they head into the final phase of the season in pursuit of a finals berth.
