North Sydney Oval Pitch (Source:@WBBL,x.com)
The Women's Ashes series is set to commence in full swing as Australia Women face England Women in the first ODI at North Sydney Oval on Friday, January 12. The Australian Women’s team enters the series on the back of a dominant 2-0 triumph against New Zealand Women. The squad showcased an exceptional all-round performance, with significant contribution from Phoebe Litchfield, Alyssa Healy, and Ashleigh Gardner. Meanwhile, Annabel Sutherland’s all-round brilliance added depth to the side.
On the other hand, England Women, are riding high after a thrilling 2-1 ODI series win against South Africa Women. Despite a setback in the opening match, England Women displayed remarkable resilience to bounce back and seal the series. Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones spearheaded the batting resurgence with valuable contributions.
However, so ahead of the first ODI at North Sydney Oval Pitch, let's take a look at the pitch conditions and how will it affect the outcome of the match.
North Sydney Oval Stats And Records In ODI
Criterion | Data |
---|---|
Matches played | 4 |
Matches won batting first | 3 |
Matches won batting second | 1 |
Average 1st innings score | 253.8 |
Average 2nd innings score | 171.3 |
North Sydney Oval Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?
The surface of North Sydney Oval is known to significantly favour the batters. With shorter boundaries in play and flat wicket, it creates an ideal batting paradise.
At the beginning of the match, seamers may find some initial assistance from the fresh pitch, as it tends to offer movement, making it challenging for batters at first. However, as the match unfolds, the pitch will inevitably slow down, allowing the batters to settle in and execute their strokes. Given these conditions, it is highly probable that the team winning the toss will opt to bat first.
Players to watch out for at North Sydney Oval
Ellyse Perry
The experienced Australian all-rounder has been in outstanding batting form recently. Ellyse Perry will aim to carry her momentum into the series, contributing not only with her powerful batting but also with her bowling capabilities.So, Perry will be a crucial player to watch out for and can leave a significant mark.
Georgia Voll
Georgia Voll has made a name for herself with her assertive style of play and impressive recent form, that will make her a player to watch in the upcoming match against New Zealand Women. As a versatile top-to-middle-order batter and capable spin bowler, she adds significant depth to her team's lineup.
Nat Sciver-Brunt
The England all-rounder has been in excellent batting form recently, making her a crucial player to watch in the upcoming series. Nat Sciver-Brunt will aim to carry her momentum forward, showcasing her all-rounder skills.
P.S: Apart from these players, the eyes will be on Phoebe Litchfield, Megan Schutt, Sophie Ecclestone, Ashley gardner.