Jonassen returned to action last month in the WNCL after shoulder surgery which ended her WBBL season early but Georgia Redmayne led Queensland in those matches. Jonassen had been Queensland and Heat captain since 2020 when she took over from Kirby Short, leading Heat to back-to-back finals in 2023-24 and 2024-25.
“I did have every intention of wanting to lead again this season, but the NSW trip helped open my eyes to a number of things and has helped me come to this decision,” Jonassen said. “I am very grateful for the past five years and to those who showed faith in me being the person to help lead these teams forward.”
“When I sat down and thought hard about what was best for the future, I realised I could no longer give my all in the role. I know this is the best decision for both me and the team. 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.”
Jonassen, who is the leading wicket-taker in WBBL history, has not featured for Australia since 2023 but has remained a regular presence in overseas T20 leagues with stints in WPL, the Hundred and WCPL.
“Looking back, as a kid, I never thought I’d ever call myself a captain of Queensland but it’s something I’m proud of and I hope I’ve made a difference somewhere in my time,” she said.
Heat had a miserable WBBL season, finishing bottom of the table in a winless campaign, but Queensland are in the running to join New South Wales in the WNCL final with two matches this week against Victoria.
