Australia clinched a thrilling 21-run victory against England in the second ODI of the Women’s Ashes series in Melbourne. They defended a modest total of 180 in a match brimming with tension, drama, and high-pressure moments. Despite a valiant fight from England, especially from Amy Jones, critical lapses in decision-making and execution ultimately cost them the game. Australia, helped by strategic brilliance and unrelenting pressure, demonstrated once again why they are the most successful team in the history of women’s cricket.
The climax of the game unfolded in the final three overs, with England needing 28 runs and Jones batting on 43* off 93 balls alongside Lauren Bell, who had survived 15 deliveries at the other end. Australia captain Alyssa Healy entrusted Annabel Sutherland with the ball, and she delivered an over with two controversial no-ball calls for high full tosses. Off one such no-ball, Jones scooped a boundary, but the following free hit did not yield runs.
The contentious no-ball decisions led to Sutherland being withdrawn from bowling the remainder of the over, and Tahlia McGrath was tasked with completing it. Off the final ball, another free hit, Jones attempted a powerful shot but was dropped by Alana King at deep square leg. Adding to England’s troubles, Jones, seemingly confused, did not attempt a run, leaving Bell exposed for the next over.
Megan Schutt, bowling her final over, then delivered a peach of a delivery with the very first ball to dismiss Bell. The ball hit the middle stump and sparked jubilant celebrations from the Australian team. Despite Jones’s unbeaten 47 off 103 balls, her inability to make crucial decisions under pressure, including trusting her lower-order partners earlier in the innings, drew criticism.
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Earlier, when Lauren Filer joined Jones at No. 9, Jones’s reluctance to rotate the strike became apparent as she consistently refused singles, seemingly not trusting her partner’s ability. This approach saw England struggling until a drinks break, during which Sophia Dunkley appeared to pass on instructions. Following this, Jones began to take singles, resulting in a productive over off Kim Garth that yielded 11 runs. However, the momentum was short-lived. In the next over, Jones misjudged a high full toss from Schutt, scooping the ball towards Darcie Brown, who made a spectacular dive to stop it. The ensuing confusion between Jones and Filer resulted in a disastrous run-out, leaving England nine down and effectively ending their chances.
Australia’s mental strength and tactical nous were on full display throughout the match. Healy’s captaincy stood out, as she made consistent fielding changes to complement the bowlers’ strategies. Notably, Healy was heard on the stump mic advising fielders to allow a boundary to ensure Bell faced the start of a new over, illustrating Australia’s calculated approach to winning moments.
England’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss initially seemed a masterstroke. On a tricky pitch with green patches and ample spin, Sophie Ecclestone and Alice Capsey wreaked havoc, combining for seven wickets, and bundling out Australia for just 180 in 44.3 overs. Australia had looked poised for a competitive total until the 27th over, but England’s spinners applied the brakes effectively. Ellyse Perry looked a class apart in her 60-run innings off 74 balls.
However, Australia’s bowlers rose to the occasion. Garth exploited the pitch’s green patches with the new ball, claiming early wickets to rattle England’s top order. Alana King was the standout performer, exploiting the turning pitch to perfection. Her spell of 4/25 in 10 overs dismantled England’s batting line-up and earned her the Player of the Match award. England were eventually bowled out for 159 in 48.1 overs as the host clinched a win from the jaws of defeat. Australia extended their lead in the Women’s Ashes points table, moving to four points after two consecutive victories.
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