The first T20I between Australia and England The famous Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed an extraordinary moment when the English left-arm spinner, Sophie EcclestoneHe made an amazing pass to expel the Australian captain. Tahlia McGrath. Ecclestone's brilliance with the ball has played a crucial role in putting England ahead as they aim to challenge Australia's imposing total.
Talia McGrath's aggressive strike was cut short by Sophie Ecclestone
The match took a dramatic turn in the 17th over of Australia's innings when Ecclestone served a ball of speed and accuracy. McGrath, looking to speed up the Australian innings, lined up to take the delivery wide but was completely overpowered by Ecclestone's perfect yorker. The ball rattled the stumps, sending McGrath back to the pavilion after a quickfire 26 off just 9 balls. Her hits included four 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 the wicket.
Here is the video:
Ecclestone strikes! This is the end of Tahlia McGrath's entertaining show #ash pic.twitter.com/pLqw9jkkMd
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025
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Ecclestone's impressive spell and early breakthrough
Ecclestone's impressive spell continued to impress as she finished off her four overs, earning her the title of England's best female bowler. With an economy rate of just 6.50, she delivered when it mattered most, taking two crucial wickets. Earlier in her spell, Ecclestone took a wicket for Australia Elise Perryremoving them for only 7 overs from 6 balls. Perry attempted an ambitious shot after advancing down the wicket to a bowled delivery, but missed, and the wicket-keeper's quick reactions Amy Jones It led to confusion. Ecclestone's brilliant delivery left Perry no chance as it fell short of the crease, marking a stunning wicket for the English spinner.
Just a drinker at that!
But Perry's short stroke ends in confusion #ash pic.twitter.com/6VigQYmRea
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025
Australia posted a strong total despite Ecclestone's efforts
Despite Ecclestone's brilliance, Australia managed a difficult total. After 20 overs, they ended their innings at 198 for 7. The Australian batting effort was built around a strong partnership at the top, with stunning batting from the opener and the wicket-keeper Beth Mooney Contributing an impressive 75 runs off 51 balls, including 11 boundaries. In reply, England managed just 141, losing the match by 57 runs.
also READ: Twitter Reactions: Beth Mooney shines as Australia thrash England in first T20I to retain Women's Ashes 2025
This article was first published in WomenCricket.comA Cricket times a company.
