Top 3 Most Memorable Women's Ashes Tests
The Australian team (Twitter)
Prior to 1930's, the Ashes cricket series only featured men's teams. It wasn't until 1934 that the first women's test match took place, involving Australia and England. However, it wasn't until 1998 that the term "The Women's Ashes" was officially applied to this test match. Following New Zealand, England became the second country to align its men's and women's cricket teams in the same year.
As a way to commemorate this alignment, Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board initiated the tradition of the Women's Ashes, 54 years after the first women's test match. Since then, it has been referred to as the Women's Ashes.
The Women's Ashes has played a significant role in promoting women's cricket and has paved the way for multi-format women's tournaments. Initially, women's test matches were played during the Ashes, and it is remarkable to witness their regular occurrence. The competition showcases the fierce competition between two top teams in women's cricket, setting higher standards for the sport.
Here are three of the most memorable Women's Ashes Tests:
1) Women's Ashes Test, 2017: England vs. Australia at North Sydney Oval- Ellyse Perry's Roaring Double Century
The perfect beginning to this article has to be Ellyse Perry's unbeaten innings of 213 on the third day of the match at North Sydney Oval in 2017 that truly shines. Despite the Test ending in a draw due to a lacklustre pitch, Perry's performance remains unforgettable as she became only the seventh woman in history to score a double-century in a Test match.
In spite of her limited participation in just 10 Test matches over an illustrious 14-year international career, Perry, an exceptional all-rounder, has achieved remarkable batting records. She has amassed 752 runs at an impressive average of 75.2, including two centuries and three half-centuries.
Ellyse Perry's 213 secured Aussies of a solid win. (Twitter)
Her innings was a display of elegance and skill, marked by 26 fours and a six. However, amidst the brilliance, there was a moment of lightheartedness when Perry prematurely celebrated on 198, mistakenly believing that one of her fours had cleared the boundary for a six.
Adding to the excitement was the fact that she was running out of time, batting alongside Australia's, Megan Schutt.
The series itself was significant for women's cricket, highlighting the growth and talent of the sport. It showcased the resilience and determination of players like Perry.
2) Women's Ashes Test, 2019: England vs Australia at Taunton - Sophie Ecclestone's Blistering 10-Wicket Haul
This Test match witnessed an outstanding performance by England's Sophie Ecclestone, who's remarkable achievement left a mark in Women's Ashes history. At the age of 19, Ecclestone displayed her exceptional bowling skills, taking a total of 10 wickets in the match, including a six-wicket haul in the second innings.
Ecclestone showcased her immense talent and skill with the ball. She spun a web around the Australian batters, consistently posing challenges and picking up crucial wickets. Her exceptional bowling display played a significant role in England's performance in the Test.
Sophie Ecclestone's 10 wickets showcased her wide range as a bowler. (Twitter)
Ecclestone's 10-wicket haul in the match made her the youngest spinner from any country to achieve this feat in a Women's Ashes Test. Her ability to extract turn, flight the ball effectively, and deceive the bats women with her variations was commendable.
The achievement not only showcased Ecclestone's individual brilliance but also contributed to the team's success.
3) Women's Ashes Test, 2011: AUS vs ENG, Sydney- Australia’s bold declaration followed by Rene Ferrell’s bowling masterclass
Although this game involved legendary cricketers from both sides, a certain Rene Ferrell took all the limelight, as her sensational fifer helped Australia claim the prestigious Ashes.
After opting to bat first, England Women were powered to 207 despite an early collapse, thanks to a scintillating ton from skipper Charlotte Edwards. In response, Australia managed a paltry 159 in their first innings, as the English bowlers, particularly Isa Guha ran riot with the red cherry.
However, right-arm seamer Rene Ferrell showcased her excellence with the ball, dismantling the English batting lineup and reducing them to 149 in their second innings through a spectacular five-wicket haul.
Chasing a steep target of 198, Australia got past the finish line without breaking a sweat, riding on flamboyant half-centuries from Sarah Elliott and skipper Alex Blackwell.
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