Australia Women started their Ashes 2025 campaign with a commanding four-wicket victory in the first ODI, securing two crucial points. The win was set up by a disciplined bowling display, followed by a composed chase led by skipper Alyssa Healy’s vital knock.
After being put in to bat, England Women struggled to post a competitive total, managing just 204 runs. The Australian bowlers exploited the conditions expertly, with Ashleigh Gardner leading the charge. Gardner delivered a stellar spell, taking 3/32 while maintaining impressive control. She was ably supported by Annabel Sutherland, Kim Garth, and Alana King, all of whom picked up two wickets each. England’s batters, despite a few getting starts, failed to convert them into significant scores, leaving the team well short of a challenging target.
Reflecting on her performance, Gardner said, “It’s an honour to play for the country and even more special to do it in my hometown. The conditions were tricky, and there was enough in the wicket for the bowlers. I’m pleased with how the ball came out, and it’s nice to start the Ashes with a win.”
In response, Australia’s chase got off to a shaky start with opener Phoebe Litchfield departing early. However, Healy steadied the innings with a captain’s knock, showcasing her experience and composure. She formed a crucial 61-run partnership with Beth Mooney for the third wicket and later added 40 runs with Gardner for the fifth wicket. Though wickets fell around her, Healy’s presence ensured the target was always within reach. She eventually fell for a well-constructed 74, but her efforts laid the foundation for a comfortable win with more than 11 overs to spare.
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Speaking about her performance, Healy remarked, “Pretty happy with the win and getting those two points. We could have been more clinical with the bat, but overall, it was a solid chase. I’m happy to have spent time at the crease and gained some confidence. It would’ve been better if I had been there at the end to finish the game, but I’m proud of the team’s effort.”
England captain Heather Knight acknowledged her side’s shortcomings, particularly with the bat. “We’re not too far away, but we needed those big scores and partnerships. The wicket had something in it throughout, and 20 more runs could have made a real difference. On the positive side, Lauren Bell was outstanding with her control and consistency today,” she said.
The decision to delay bringing Sophie Ecclestone into the attack was difficult to fathom, especially as Mooney—one of Australia’s key left-handers—was at the crease. Ironically, it was Ecclestone who dismissed Mooney, highlighting the potential impact she could have had earlier in the innings.
With this win, Australia take an early lead in the series and will look to carry the momentum into the next match. England, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly and address their batting issues to stay competitive in the series.
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