Australia Retains Women's Ashes with Dominant T20 Victory

Australia retained the Women’s Ashes with a dominant 57-run victory over England in the first T20 at Sydney Cricket Ground. England, set a target of 199, collapsed to 141 all out in just 16 overs despite Sophia Dunkley’s brilliant 59 on her first appearance of the tour. Dunkley’s knock which included six fours and four sixes, gave England hope after a rocky start with openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge dismissed for ducks.

England reached 62-3 at the powerplay but fell apart as the last seven wickets tumbled for just 45 runs. Australia’s leg-spinners, Alana King and Georgia Wareham played crucial roles, taking 2-14 and 3-25. Meanwhile, Beth Mooney’s 75 from 51 balls built the foundation for Australia’s imposing total. Mooney got dropped early and England’s fielding mistakes such as missed catches and overthrows allowed Australia to capitalize.

Despite Dunkley’s strong effort, England’s batting faltered. Tahlia McGrath, in the absence of Alyssa Healy and Ash Gardner contributed a quick-fire 26 and showed Australia’s depth and composure. England struggled against spin with King and Wareham continuing to trouble them throughout the series. After the match, Dunkley reflected on her performance, acknowledging that England could still draw the Ashes.

McGrath, on the other hand, emphasized Australia’s aim to win outright. England’s captain, Heather Knight admitted that fielding mistakes and an inability to handle spin cost them dearly. The second T20 will take place on Thursday in Canberra with Australia leading 8-0 in the multi-format series.