Australia defend 180 in the second Women's Ashes ODI

In a gripping encounter at Melbourne's Junction Oval, the Australia Women's cricket team showcased their defending prowess, clinching a memorable victory against England Women in the 2nd One Day International (ODI) of the 2025 Women's Ashes series. The match, which unfolded on January 13, 2025, saw Australia's total of just 180 runs being defended successfully, reinforcing their dominance in the series.

Image Credits: ESPN Cricinfo

Australia, batting first, faced a challenging pitch. Captain Alyssa Healy and stalwart Ellyse Perry started positively, but England's bowlers, led by Sophie Ecclestone and Alice Capsey, made significant inroads, ensuring Australia was bowled out for 180 in 44.3 overs. This was one of the lowest totals Australia had set in recent memory on home soil, prompting a tense atmosphere as England prepared to chase.

England's came to the chase on a positive note, but the Australian bowlers, particularly Alana King and Kim Garth, were relentless. Gardner, who had already made her mark with her all-round brilliance in the first ODI, shone with the ball. The Australian fielders were also sharp, capitalizing on England's errors in the field which had been costly in previous matches.

As the game progressed, the pressure of the modest target seemed to weigh on England's batters. Despite some resistance from Amy Jones and Nat Sciver-Brunt, England struggled to build partnerships, falling to 159 all out. Australia won the match by 21 runs in the end.

This win not only gave Australia two wins already in the series but also highlighted the depth and resilience of the Australian side, proving that even when not at their strongest with the bat, they could defend with tenacity. This match will be remembered as a testament to Australia's strategic gameplay going forward in the Women's Ashes 2025.

Brief Scores: Australia Women - 180 all out in 44.3 overs (Ellyse Perry - 60, Sophie Ecclestone - 4/35) defeated England Women - 159 all out in 48.1 overs (Amy Jones - 47*, Alana King - 4/25) by a margin of 21 runs