Women’s Ashes 2023: England seals ODI series against Australia with a win in the decider

In a rain affected encounter at The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton, England emerged victorious in the third and ODI against Australia. The match, played under the Duckworth-Lewis method due to rain interruptions, witnessed an impressive performance from Natalie Sciver, who was awarded the Player of the Match for her outstanding contribution.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, England posted a challenging total of 285 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs. Heather Knight, the England captain, led from the front with a solid knock of 67 runs off 72 deliveries, including 6 fours and 1 six. However, it was Sciver’s brilliant century that anchored the innings. Sciver showcased her batting prowess, scoring a magnificent 129 runs off 149 deliveries, smashing 15 fours and 1 six in the process. Danielle Wyatt also provided valuable support with a quickfire 43 runs off just 25 balls.

Australia, in pursuit of 286 runs, faltered under pressure and were eventually bundled out for 199 runs in 35.3 overs. Ellyse Perry top-scored for the Aussies with a gritty knock of 53 runs off 58 deliveries, featuring 6 fours and 1 six. Ashleigh Gardner contributed a quickfire 41 runs off 24 balls, which included 3 fours and 2 sixes. However, the English bowlers remained disciplined and picked up crucial wickets at regular intervals. Kate Cross and Lauren Bell were the pick of the bowlers for England, both securing 3 wickets each.

With this 69-run victory (D/L method), England not only won the 3rd ODI but also leveled the Women’s Ashes 2023 series at 8-8.

What a series that will go down as one of the greatest in history 👏👏👏
We draw the Metro Bank Women’s Ashes 2023 🤝#EnglandCricket #Ashes pic.twitter.com/4eKHjO5GAI
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 18, 2023