Australia have secured the Women’s Ashes once again with an emphatic 57-run victory over England in the first T20 international at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This result gives the hosts an unassailable 8-0 lead, ensuring they retain the trophy they have held since 2015.
England’s Hopes of Regaining the Ashes Ended
Heather Knight’s England side can still draw the series with wins in the final two T20 matches and the one-off Test, but they are now mathematically unable to reclaim the trophy after another disappointing defeat.
England, who were whitewashed 3-0 in the preceding ODI series, were bowled out for 141 in 16 overs while chasing 199—a total that would have equaled the highest successful chase in Women’s T20 history. Sophia Dunkley’s explosive 59 off 30 balls provided some resistance, but it was not enough.
Dunkley’s Dismissal Proves Costly
England’s chase suffered a major setback when Dunkley was bowled by Tahlia McGrath in the 12th over, leaving 89 runs still required. England had already lost openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge for ducks, further denting their hopes.
Australia posted an imposing 198-7, with Beth Mooney (75 off 51) starring yet again, scoring her 24th T20 international fifty after being dropped early by Amy Jones.
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Sloppy Fielding and Expensive Bowling Hurt England
England were poor in the field, missing several chances. Lauren Bell dropped debutant Georgia Voll, while Charlie Dean and Nat Sciver-Brunt failed to communicate on another crucial catch. Sophie Ecclestone (2-26 from four overs) was the only standout bowler, dismissing both McGrath (26 off 9) and Grace Harris (14 off 8). However, all other English bowlers conceded at eight runs per over or more.
Series Continues in Canberra and Adelaide Before Melbourne Test
The series resumes in Canberra on Thursday, followed by the final T20 in Adelaide on Saturday. The pink-ball Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from January 30 will conclude the series.
With Australia already securing the Ashes, England now face big decisions regarding their future. The positions of captain Heather Knight and head coach Jon Lewis may come under review as the team looks to rebuild.
Dunkley’s Brilliant Knock in Vain
Needing to match their record T20 chase of 199 (vs India, 2018), England got off to a terrible start. Bouchier fell for a duck after just two balls, while Wyatt-Hodge was caught behind on her first delivery. Megan Schutt and Kim Garth inflicted early damage, leaving England in deep trouble.
Dunkley and Sciver-Brunt (20 off 12) countered aggressively, adding 44 runs in just 18 balls, but Sciver-Brunt’s dismissal to Alana King’s first ball derailed England’s hopes. Dunkley powered to a 24-ball fifty, but after her departure, England collapsed, losing their last six wickets for just 31 runs.
Georgia Wareham (3-25) ripped through the middle order, ensuring Australia’s comfortable win.
Mooney Leads Australia’s Dominant Batting Performance
Earlier in the match, Mooney’s classy 75 anchored Australia’s innings, with strong support from Voll, McGrath, and Phoebe Litchfield. Litchfield’s 25 off 20 included a stunning switch-hit six, showcasing Australia’s aggressive intent.
With Alyssa Healy sidelined due to a foot injury, Voll was handed her T20I debut. Healy’s fitness remains uncertain, but with the Ashes secured, Australia may take a cautious approach with their captain.
Women’s Ashes – Results & Fixtures
ODI Series:
- First ODI (Jan 11) – Australia won by 4 wickets
- Second ODI (Jan 13) – Australia won by 21 runs
- Third ODI (Jan 16) – Australia won by 86 runs
T20 Series:
- First T20I (Jan 20) – Australia won by 57 runs
- Second T20I (Jan 23, 8:40 AM) – Canberra
- Third T20I (Jan 25, 8:10 AM) – Adelaide
Test Match:
- Jan 30 – Feb 2 (3:30 AM) – Melbourne Cricket Ground
With the Ashes retained, Australia will now focus on sealing an outright series win, while England look to salvage pride in the remaining matches. Can England bounce back, or will Australia continue their dominance?