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The first T20I between Australia and England at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed an extraordinary moment when the England left arm, Sophie Ecclestonebowled a stunning delivery to dismiss Australia’s captain, Tahlia McGrath. Ecclestone’s brilliance with the ball played a crucial role in putting England on top as they look to challenge Australia’s towering total.
Aggressive strike from Tahlia McGrath blocked by Sophie Ecclestone
The match saw a dramatic turn in the 17th over of Australia’s innings when Ecclestone bowled a ball that had pace and accuracy. McGrath, looking to pace the Australian innings, lined up to slow the delivery but Ecclestone’s perfect yorker was completely bowled. 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! This is 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 the first breakthrough
Ecclestone’s remarkable spell continued to impress as he finished his four overs, finishing as England’s most economical bowler. With an economy rate of just 6.50, he delivered when it mattered most, picking up two crucial wickets. Earlier in his spell, Ecclestone had claimed the Australian port Ellyse Perryremoving her by just 7 runs from 6 balls. Perry attempted an ambitious shot after advancing down the wicket to a tossed delivery, but missed, and the keeper’s quick reflexes. Amy Jones led to a collapse. Ecclestone’s brilliant delivery left Perry with no chance as she stayed outside her crease, marking a stunning wicket for the England spinner.
Just a mustache!
But Perry’s short shot ends up stumped #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6VigQYmRea
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 20, 2025
Australia post a strong total despite Ecclestone’s effort
Despite Ecclestone’s brilliance, Australia still managed a challenging total. After 20 overs, they ended their innings at 198 for 7. The Australian batting effort was built around a solid partnership at the top, with incredible knock from the opener and wicketkeeper. Beth Mooney contributing an impressive 75 runs off 51 balls, including 11 boundaries. In reply, England could only manage 141, losing the match by 57 runs.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Beth Mooney explodes as Australia beat England in first T20I to retain Women’s Ashes 2025
This article was first published in WomenCricket.coma Cricket time company
