Women’s Ashes 2025: Australia Secure Series with Thrilling 2nd T20I Victory Over England
CANBERRA: Australia secured the Women’s Ashes after a dramatic six-run victory against England using the DLS method in the rain-interrupted second T20I at Manuka Oval on Thursday.
England, chasing a target of 186, reached 168/4 in 19.1 overs when rain halted play. They fell six runs short of the DLS par score of 174, dashing their hopes of leveling the series. This victory handed Australia an unassailable 10-0 lead in the multi-format series.
The teams are set to meet for one more T20I, followed by a one-off Test. The limited-overs matches carry two points each, while the Test holds four points.
Opting to bat first, Australia posted a competitive 185/5, thanks to a record-breaking sixth-wicket partnership of 71 runs between Tahlia McGrath and Grace Harris. McGrath top-scored with an unbeaten 48 off 35 balls, featuring eight boundaries, while Harris smashed a quick 35 not out off 17 deliveries, hitting two fours and three sixes.
For England, Charlie Dean stood out with two wickets, while Sophie Ecclestone and Freya Kemp claimed one each.
In response, England managed 168/4, with Danni Wyatt-Hodge anchoring the innings with a 40-ball 52, and skipper Heather Knight contributing a blistering 43 not out off 19 balls, including six fours and a six.
Megan Schutt was the most effective bowler for Australia, taking 2/32 in four overs, while Annabel Sutherland and Kim Garth claimed a wicket each.
