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Greatest Catch In Ashes History! Gardner Pulls Off A Stunning Catch To Dismiss Ecclestone

Rajgeeta Yadav

Ashleigh Gardner takes a stunning catch [Source: @imfemalecricket/X.com]Ashleigh Gardner takes a stunning catch [Source: @imfemalecricket/X.com]

Ashleigh Gardner continues to prove why she’s one of the best in women’s cricket. On January 17, during the third ODI of the Ashes 2025 at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart, Gardner pulled off what many are calling one of the greatest catches in Ashes history. Her incredible effort not only stunned fans but also played a key role in Australia’s dominant 86-run victory over England.

The moment came in the 41st over of England’s innings. Alana King bowled a flighted delivery, and Sophie Ecclestone attempted a slog sweep, sending the ball high into the air. It seemed destined to clear Gardner at the boundary, but she had other plans. Leaping into the air, she grabbed the ball one-handed while balancing precariously near the boundary rope.

As her momentum carried her over the ropes, Gardner had the presence of mind to throw the ball back into play. She then re-entered the field, dived forward, and completed the catch. The third umpire confirmed it was clean, and the crowd erupted. This jaw-dropping effort is being compared to the iconic catch taken by Suryakumar Yadav in the T20 World Cup 2024 final.

Australia Dominate Vs England

Australia Women, who already led the ODI series 2-0, sealed a clean sweep with this victory. Batting first, they posted a formidable total of 308/8. Despite a shaky start, with Alyssa Healy (15), Phoebe Litchfield (15), and Ellyse Perry (2) falling early, Gardner and Beth Mooney rescued the innings. Gardner’s magnificent 102 off 100 balls and Tahlia McGrath’s composed 55 helped steady the ship. Georgia Wareham’s quickfire 38 off just 12 balls gave the innings a spectacular finish.

England, chasing 309, faltered early, losing wickets in clusters. Nat Sciver-Brunt’s fighting 61 and Tammy Beaumont’s 54 were not enough to keep up with the required rate. Australia’s bowlers, led by Alana King’s five-wicket haul, were relentless, wrapping up England for 222.