In a thrilling encounter at Bristol, England’s women’s cricket team pulled off a remarkable two-wicket victory over Australia in the first one-day international (ODI) of the Women’s Ashes series. The win levels the series at 6-6 with two ODIs remaining, setting up an exciting finish to the multi-format tournament.

Chasing a target of 264 runs, England got off to a flying start with a blistering 74-run partnership between Tammy Beaumont (47 off 42 balls) and Alice Capsey (40 off 34 balls). The duo attacked the Australian bowlers, putting the England innings on track for a successful chase.

However, a dramatic collapse in the middle order saw England lose four wickets for just 41 runs. Danni Wyatt (14), Amy Jones (2), Sophie Ecclestone (5), and Sarah Glenn (3) all fell cheaply, leaving England at a precarious 235-8 in the 44th over.

With the game hanging in the balance, England captain Heather Knight took charge and displayed exceptional leadership. Knight, known for her composure under pressure, played a magnificent unbeaten innings of 75 runs. Her innings included crucial boundaries and she held the innings together while wickets tumbled at the other end.

Knight found an able partner in Kate Cross (19 not out), who provided valuable support and remained unbeaten until the end. The duo stitched together a match-winning 32-run partnership to guide England to a thrilling victory with 11 balls to spare.

This victory marks England’s third consecutive win in white-ball cricket against Australia, following their success in the final two T20 internationals. It is also a significant moment as it is the first time in 137 matches that Australia has suffered three consecutive losses.

The Women’s Ashes series, which began with a Test match at Trent Bridge, is now finely poised with both teams level on points. After losing the Test match and the opening IT20, England’s comeback has injected new life into the contest, giving them hope of reclaiming the Ashes for the first time in nine years.

Cricket fans can catch the second ODI at The Ageas Bowl, live on Sky Sports Cricket from 10:30 am on Sunday, with the first ball scheduled for 11 am. The outcome of the remaining ODIs will determine the fate of the Women’s Ashes series, promising more thrilling action in the coming matches.