The first T20I enters Australia and England at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, we witnessed an extraordinary moment when England’s left-arm spinner, Sophie Ecclestoneproduced a stunning performance to dismiss the Australian captain, Tahlia McGrath. Ecclestone’s brilliance with the ball has played a crucial role in putting England in the lead as they aim to challenge Australia’s imposing total.
Tahlia McGrath’s aggressive shot interrupted by Sophie Ecclestone
The match took a dramatic turn in Australia’s 17th over when Ecclestone bowled a ball that was both quick and accurate. McGrath, looking to speed up the Australian innings, lined up to rush the delivery but was completely foiled by Ecclestone’s perfect yorker. The ball rattled his stumps, sending McGrath back to the pavilion after a quickfire 26 runs off just 9 balls. His knock included 4 fours and a six, but Ecclestone’s brilliance ended his stay at the crease. The Australian skipper, who had played 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 completed her four overs, finishing as England’s most economical bowler. With an economy rate of just 6.50, she delivered when it mattered most, taking two crucial wickets. Earlier in his tenure, Ecclestone had claimed Australia’s wicket. Ellyse Perryremoving her for just 7 runs off 6 balls. Perry attempted an ambitious shot after advancing down the wicket to a bowled delivery, but missed, and the wicketkeeper’s quick reflexes Amy Jones leads to a blockage. Ecclestone’s brilliant delivery gave Perry no chance as she was caught before her crease, scoring a superb wicket for the England spinner.
Just a mustache in it!
But Perry’s short shot ends, perplexed #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6VigQYmRea
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025
Australia posts strong total despite Ecclestone’s efforts
Despite Ecclestone’s brilliance, Australia still managed to post a difficult total. After 20 overs, they finished their innings at 198 for 7. The Australian batting effort was built around a strong partnership at the top, with incredible hitting from the opener and wicketkeeper. Beth Mooney contributing to an impressive 75 runs off 51 balls, including 11 boundaries. In response, England could only reach 141 runs, losing the match by 57 runs.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.comA Cricket Schedules business.