WATCH: Sophie Ecclestone’s spellbinding delivery castles Tahlia McGrath in the AUS vs ENG 1st T20I | Women’s Ashes 2025

Table of Contents

Tahlia McGrath’s aggressive knock cut short by Sophie Ecclestone
- Here is the video
Ecclestone’s impressive spell and early breakthrough
Australia post strong total despite Ecclestone’s effort

The first T20I between Australia and England at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed an extraordinary moment when England’s left-arm off-spinner, Sophie Ecclestone, produced a stunning delivery to dismiss Australia’s captain, Tahlia McGrath. Ecclestone’s brilliance with the ball played a crucial role in putting England on top as they aim to challenge Australia’s imposing total.

Tahlia McGrath’s aggressive knock cut short by Sophie Ecclestone

The match saw a dramatic turn in the 17th over of Australia’s innings when Ecclestone delivered a ball that had both pace and precision. McGrath, who was looking to accelerate the Australian innings, lined up to slog the delivery away but was completely outfoxed by Ecclestone’s perfect yorker. The ball rattled her stumps, sending McGrath back to the pavilion after a quickfire 26 runs off just 9 balls. Her knock included 4 fours and a six, but Ecclestone’s brilliance ended her stay at the crease. The Australian skipper, who had been playing an aggressive role in the match, was visibly frustrated as Ecclestone celebrated her wicket.

Here is the video:

Ecclestone strikes! That's the end of Tahlia McGrath's entertaining cameo #Ashes pic.twitter.com/pLqw9jkkMd
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025

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Ecclestone’s impressive spell and early breakthrough

Ecclestone’s remarkable spell continued to impress as she wrapped up her four overs, finishing as the most economical bowler for England. With an economy rate of just 6.50, she delivered when it mattered most, taking two crucial wickets. Earlier in her spell, Ecclestone had claimed the wicket of Australia’s Ellyse Perry, removing her for a mere 7 runs off 6 balls. Perry attempted an ambitious shot after advancing down the wicket to a tossed-up delivery, but missed, and the quick reflexes of wicketkeeper Amy Jones led to a stumping. Ecclestone’s brilliant delivery left Perry with no chance as she was caught short of her crease, marking a stunning wicket for the English spinner.

Just a whisker in it!
But Perry's short knock ends, out stumped #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6VigQYmRea
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025

Australia post strong total despite Ecclestone’s effort

Despite Ecclestone’s brilliance, Australia still managed to post a challenging total. After 20 overs, they ended their innings at 198 for 7. The Australian batting effort was built around a solid partnership at the top, with the incredible knock from opener and wicket-keeper Beth Mooney contributing an impressive 75 runs off 51 balls, including 11 boundaries. In response, England could only manage to reach 141, losing the game by 57 runs.