Australia Wins First Women's Ashes ODI with Ash Gardner's All-Round Performance

In the first match of the Women’s Ashes, Australia defeated England by chasing down a target of 204 runs. Ash Gardner was the star for Australia, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs and then scoring 42 not out to help her team win.

England batted first after losing the toss. They started poorly, with opener Maia Bouchier getting out early. Captain Heather Knight played well, scoring 39 runs off 48 balls. She built partnerships with Tammy Beaumont and Nat Sciver-Brunt, but after Knight was out, England’s batting fell apart. They lost several quick wickets, and the tail failed to score many runs. England ended up with 203 all out.

Australia’s chase began with a quick wicket, as Phoebe Litchfield was out early. But captain Alyssa Healy led the way, scoring 70 runs with 11 boundaries. She was out when Australia still needed 40 runs to win. Gardner then finished the game with a quick 42 runs, and Australia won comfortably.

England’s bowlers, including Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, and Lauren Bell, tried to fight back but couldn’t stop Australia. Gardner’s all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award.

England was missing their key bowler Kate Cross due to injury, which weakened their attack. The second ODI will take place on Monday in Melbourne, with both teams fighting for more points.

First ODI Summary: