Australia secured the Women’s Ashes with a commanding 57-run victory over England in the first T20I of the multi-format series in Sydney on Tuesday. Strong performances from Beth Mooney and Georgia Wareham ensured Australia continued their dominance, building on their earlier ODI series sweep.
Batting first, Australia posted a daunting total of 198/7, powered by Beth Mooney’s exceptional 75 off 51 balls, featuring 11 boundaries. Mooney’s innings set the tone for Australia, with aggressive contributions from Georgia Voll (21 off 11), Tahlia McGrath (26 off 9, including four boundaries and a six), and Grace Harris (14 off 8) adding to the fireworks.
ALSO READ
England’s bowlers Sophie Ecclestone (2/26) and Lauren Bell (2/39) were the pick of the attack but struggled to contain the Australian batters.
England’s reply started poorly, losing both openers for ducks. However, Sophia Dunkley’s blistering 59 off 30 balls, which included six fours and a six, gave England a glimmer of hope. Despite Dunkley’s efforts, wickets fell at regular intervals, and England were bowled out for 141 with four overs remaining.
Georgia Wareham (3/25) and Alana King (2/14) led Australia’s bowling attack with precision. King’s scalps included key players Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight, effectively dismantling England’s batting order and sealing the victory.
Australia’s win in the first T20I follows their clean sweep in the three-match ODI series, where they secured victories by margins of four wickets, 21 runs, and 86 runs. With three matches remaining in the series—two T20Is and a one-off Test—Australia will now aim for a comprehensive series sweep.
The second T20I will take place in Canberra on Thursday, followed by the final T20I in Adelaide on Saturday. The multi-format series will conclude with a one-off Test in Melbourne, starting January 30.
Get every cricket update! Follow us on
