Australia secured a nail-biting three-run win in the second ODI at the Ageas Bowl, ensuring their retention of the Women’s Ashes against England. Despite an incredible unbeaten innings of 111 by Nat Sciver-Brunt, England fell agonizingly short in their chase of Australia’s total of 282 for seven.
Batting first, Australia’s Ellyse Perry (91) and Annabel Sutherland (50) propelled their team to a competitive score. Georgia Wareham’s blistering 24 runs in the final over changed the game’s momentum. In response, Tammy Beaumont’s solid 60 provided a strong start for England, but regular wickets disrupted their progress. Alana King’s impressive three-wicket haul limited England, despite Sciver-Brunt’s heroic efforts.
With this victory, Australia takes an 8-6 lead in the multi-format series, leaving England with no chance of reclaiming the Ashes. The final ODI in Taunton will serve as a mere formality.
England’s decision to bowl first paid off early on, with Lauren Bell removing Phoebe Litchfield and Alyssa Healy. Perry and Beth Mooney then built a crucial partnership before spinners Sophie Ecclestone and Sarah Glenn restricted Australia. However, a late surge from Sutherland and Wareham propelled Australia’s score beyond 280.
In pursuit of their target, England faced an uphill battle after the dismissals of Knight, Beaumont, and Capsey. Sciver-Brunt’s valiant century kept England’s hopes alive, but she lacked support from the other end. Despite some late fireworks from Glenn, the target proved just out of reach for England, as they finished on 279 for seven.
Australia’s victory cements their dominance in women’s cricket, while England will be left to reflect on missed opportunities. The final ODI will be played without any bearing on the outcome of the series, allowing both teams to experiment and give opportunities to new players.