Ashleigh Gardner’s maiden ODI century guided Australia to an 86-run victory over England, securing a clean sweep of the ODI leg of the Women’s Ashes and bringing them closer to retaining the trophy. Australia posted 308/8, with Gardner contributing an impressive 102 off 102 balls. Her knock, combined with support from Beth Mooney (50), Tahlia McGrath (55), and Georgia Wareham (38 off 12 balls), helped Australia recover from a precarious 59/4.
Gardner’s century was complemented by a stunning one-handed catch in the field, dismissing Sophie Ecclestone in a remarkable display of athleticism. England’s chase faltered despite strong knocks from Tammy Beaumont (54) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (61). England were bowled out for 222 in 42.2 overs, with leg-spinner Alana King taking 5-46 and Megan Schutt (3-57) also contributing to the downfall.
Australia’s innings was in trouble early, but Gardner’s partnership with Mooney steadied the ship. After Mooney’s dismissal for 50, Gardner carried on to reach her century. Wareham’s quick-fire 38 off 12 balls helped Australia pass 300.
In reply, England initially responded well, reaching 118/2, but Australia’s bowlers, particularly King and Schutt, broke the middle order. With this win, Australia, now 6-0 in the series, need just one more win to retain the Women’s Ashes.
BOX
Scoreboard
Australia: 308/8 (Ashleigh Gardner 102, Tahlia McGrath 55; Nat Sciver-Brunt 2-51, Charlie Dean 2-53)
England: 222 (Nat Sciver-Brunt 61, Tammy Beaumont 54; Alana King 5-46, Megan Schutt 3-57)
Australia won by 86 runs.
