The Women’s Ashes Test held at Trent Bridge (the first day out of five) had its own twists and turns. Australia managed a total of 328 for 7 wickets in 85 overs, with Ellyse Perry scoring 99 and Tahlia McGrath contributing 61. Sophie Ecclestone from the England side played impressively, taking 3 wickets for 71 runs. England is yet to step up to bat.
The English spinner, Ecclestone, proved instrumental in keeping the balance in the standalone Test against Australia after the first day concluded. Australia, after winning the toss, were going steady at 226 for 3, but soon faced a setback losing three quick wickets, including the all-rounder Perry, within just 24 balls, adding only 12 runs to the score.
Ecclestone, showing her exceptional bowling prowess, took two wickets in a gap of just three balls, dismissing the Australian captain Alyssa Healy without a score. Lauren Filer, making her debut, took down Perry with an impressive 76mph delivery.
Ash Gardner and Annabel Sutherland’s crucial partnership of 77 runs helped Australia stabilize their innings. However, Gardner fell to Lauren Bell towards the end of the day, finishing Australia’s innings at 328-7.
Kate Cross from England drew first blood in the series, taking down debutant Phoebe Litchfield for 23. Subsequently, Filer made her mark, claiming her first international wicket, catching Beth Mooney off guard at slip for 33 runs.
The pair of Perry and McGrath had put up a daunting partnership of 119 runs for the third wicket before Ecclestone (3-71) changed the game’s course. Ecclestone bowled a massive 31 overs with an economy rate of 2.29 runs per over, offering a steady control for England’s captain, Heather Knight.
The five-day Test series, contributing four points to the multi-format series, will be followed by three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals.
Perry and McGrath’s seemingly invincible partnership was ultimately challenged when Ecclestone bowled a wonderfully flighted delivery to McGrath. After a short delay due to rain, England found renewed vigor, and Ecclestone struck again in the 56th over.
Jess Jonassen was smartly caught off the glove at short leg following a clever review by Knight, and then Ecclestone swiftly bowled wicketkeeper Healy out for her third consecutive duck in Ashes Test matches.
Filer showed great potential, and despite some early expense – 65 runs in 14 overs – her pace is a promising sign for England’s future. Her debut wicket of Mooney and the crucial wicket of Perry promises a bright future for the young debutant.
According to England bowler Lauren Filer, “It was definitely a surreal experience, but I loved it. We’ll try and bowl straight and full tomorrow and take the last three wickets.” Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry added, “We’ll split the chocolate today… it would be nice to push up close to 400 runs.” The final verdict from former England spinner Alex Hartley was, “All in all, an even day.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes 2023 Women’s Test
Who scored the highest for Australia on the first day of Women’s Ashes 2023?
Ellyse Perry was the highest scorer for Australia, with 99 runs.
Who took the most wickets for England on the first day of Women’s Ashes 2023?
Sophie Ecclestone was the most successful bowler for England, taking 3 wickets for 71 runs.
Who was the debutant for England in the Women’s Ashes 2023 and how did she perform?
Lauren Filer made her debut for England in this series. She performed well, dismissing Ellyse Perry with a sharp 76mph delivery and Beth Mooney for her first international wicket.
What is the format of the Women’s Ashes 2023 series?
The Women’s Ashes 2023 series is a multi-format series, which includes a five-day Test, three Twenty20 internationals, and three one-day internationals.
How did Australia’s innings end on the first day?
Australia ended their innings with 328 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.
More about Ashes 2023 Women’s Test
- Women’s Ashes 2023: Detailed Schedule and Format
- Ellyse Perry: Player Profile and Stats
- Sophie Ecclestone: Player Profile and Stats
- Lauren Filer: Player Profile and Stats
- Women’s Cricket: Latest News and Updates
5 comments
Let’s go Australia! we can push to 400. Great fightback by Sutherland and Gardner.
can’t believe Perry missed her century by just a run, unlucky mate!
Those 3 wickets by Ecclestone really made the difference for England. Her bowling is sooo on point!
Filer’s debut! Wow just wow!! this girl’s going places, mark my words…
Trent bridge is such a great ground. Can’t wait to see how England bats on it!