At a crucial moment during the 2nd T20I between Australia And England, Sophie Ecclestone showed his tactical acumen and exceptional ability to dismiss Beth Mooneywho was in fine form with 44 runs off 31 balls.
Sophie Ecclestone eliminates Beth Mooney with tactical brilliance
On the fourth ball of the 8th over, Mooney, looking to maintain his aggressive approach, charged down the wicket early, but Ecclestone read his intentions perfectly. The left-arm spinner adjusted his delivery smartly, throwing it wide down the leg side, making it almost impossible for Mooney to connect. Wicketkeeper Amy Jones demonstrated lightning-quick reflexes, collecting the ball cleanly with a half-volley and clearing the bails in one fluid movement to complete a brilliant stumping.
The dismissal not only broke Australia’s momentum, but also highlighted Ecclestone’s ability to think quickly under pressure. His awareness and execution were instrumental in removing a dangerous batter, cementing his reputation as one of the smartest bowlers in the game. This wicket left Australia at 66/2 and provided a much-needed breakthrough for England at a crucial moment in the match.
Here is the video:
Sophie Ecclestone succeeds in her plan and Beth Mooney falls at 44 #Ashes pic.twitter.com/RrCqDn4HCK
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 23, 2025
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Australia sets ambitious target for England in 2nd T20I
Australia has implemented a total of 185/5 in their 20 overs against England in the second T20I at Manuka Oval, Canberra. The sleeves were anchored by the captain Tahlia McGrathremained undefeated on 48 out of 35 balls, and the explosive Grace Harriswho destroyed 35 deliveries off just 17 with an astonishing strike rate of 205.88.
Beth Mooney provided a good start with 44 runs from 31 balls, showing her consistency and aggression. However, his dismissal, brilliantly orchestrated by Ecclestone, marked a turning point as England temporarily slowed Australia’s goalscoring pace. Ecclestone and Charlie Dean were England’s most notable bowlers, each claiming a wicket and maintaining respectable savings.
Despite the first stumbles, notably the failure of Ellyse Perrythe resurgence of Australia’s middle order led by McGrath and Harris ensured a competitive total. England’s bowlers struggled to contain the runs in the death overs, conceding 63 runs in the last five overs. The total of 185/5 makes for a tough haul for England, who will need a disciplined batting performance to stay alive in the series.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.comA Cricket Schedules business.