Australia Clinches Women’s Ashes With Rain-Affected T20 Win

Australia won a rain-affected second T20 by six runs, securing an outright series victory over England in the Women’s Ashes. England’s chase for 186 faced disruption from heavy rain, leaving them six runs short and finishing on 168-4 after the DLS method was applied. England needed 18 from five balls with Heather Knight on 43*, but the weather halted their progress.

England remained competitive with opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge scoring 52 and Knight’s partnership with Nat Sciver-Brunt (65 off 6.5 overs) keeping them in the game.  However, England’s bowlers conceded 48 runs in the final three overs which ultimately cost them. Despite Australia stumbling to 137-5, Tahlia McGrath (48*) and Grace Harris (35) propelled the hosts to 185-5. England’s bowlers, led by off-spinner Charlie Dean (2-28), created opportunities but missed catches—including one by Dean off McGrath—proved costly.

Australia’s resilience shone with McGrath and Harris capitalizing on the fielding errors. England’s brave batting effort in the rain ultimately fell short. Knight’s frustration was evident as England came close but failed to secure the win. After suffering a 3-0 defeat in the one-day series, Knight praised her team’s improved performance but acknowledged the defeat.

With the series already decided, England now aims to play for pride in the remaining games while Australia seeks a historic 16-0 clean sweep in the Ashes. Knight expressed disappointment over the rain delay, feeling confident of a win, while former players highlighted England’s improvement despite the loss.