The Women’s Ashes 2025 Test match between Australia and England has reached its thrilling third day at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). With both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination, cricket fans are in for a treat as they witness the intense battle unfold.
Day 3 highlights: England’s resilience tested
As the sun rose over the MCG on day three, England found themselves in a precarious position. Having been bowled out for 170 in their first innings, they faced an uphill battle against Australia’s formidable total of 440. The 270-run deficit loomed large as England’s batters took to the crease for their second innings.
Tammy Beaumont, England’s opener, showed early promise with a resolute 47 runs off 124 balls. Her patient innings provided a glimmer of hope for the visitors. However, Australia’s bowlers, particularly Alana King, proved to be a constant threat. King’s precise spin bowling claimed the crucial wicket of Beaumont, sending shockwaves through the English lineup.
The day’s play was characterized by:
- England’s struggle to build substantial partnerships
- Australia’s relentless bowling attack
- Crucial wickets falling at regular intervals
- The growing pressure on England’s middle order
As the day progressed, England’s captain Heather Knight showed her mettle with a hard-fought 32 runs. However, her dismissal by Ash Gardner dealt a severe blow to England’s hopes of salvaging the match. The Australian bowlers continued to apply pressure, with King and Gardner sharing six wickets between them.
Australia’s dominant performance
Australia’s commanding position in the match is a testament to their exceptional performance in their first innings. Led by Beth Mooney’s brilliant 106, the hosts amassed a formidable total of 440 runs. The innings was characterized by solid contributions from multiple players, showcasing the depth of Australia’s batting lineup.
Key highlights of Australia’s innings include:
- Annabel Sutherland’s patient 163, anchoring the innings
- Alyssa Healy’s quick-fire 34 setting the tone early
- Ash Gardner’s valuable 44 runs in the middle order
- The tail-enders’ crucial contributions, frustrating England’s bowlers
England’s bowling attack, led by Sophie Ecclestone, fought valiantly against the Australian onslaught. Ecclestone’s impressive figures of 5 wickets for 143 runs in 44.3 overs demonstrated her skill and endurance. However, the sheer depth of Australia’s batting proved too much for England to contain.
Crucial moments and player performances
The Test match has been a showcase of individual brilliance and team strategy. Several players have stood out with their performances, shaping the course of the game. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout moments and players:
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Beth Mooney | Australia | 106 runs (173 balls) |
| Annabel Sutherland | Australia | 163 runs (325 balls) |
| Sophie Ecclestone | England | 5 wickets for 143 runs |
| Alana King | Australia | 4 wickets for 54 runs (2nd innings) |
The partnership between Mooney and Sutherland proved to be a turning point in the match. Their 154-run stand for the fifth wicket effectively took the game away from England, setting the stage for Australia’s dominant position.
On the bowling front, Alana King’s performance in England’s second innings has been nothing short of exceptional. Her ability to extract turn and bounce from the MCG pitch has kept the English batters on their toes throughout the day.
The road ahead: England’s fight for survival
As day three draws to a close, England finds themselves in a precarious position. With the score at 131 for 8 in their second innings, they still trail Australia by 139 runs. The visitors face an uphill battle to avoid an innings defeat and keep their hopes alive in this crucial Ashes Test.
Sophie Ecclestone, currently unbeaten on 15, carries England’s slim hopes of extending the match into day four. Her resilience, coupled with the support of the tail-enders, will be crucial in determining how long England can resist Australia’s push for victory.
For Australia, the goal is clear: wrap up the England innings quickly and secure a commanding victory in this Test match. With the new ball due in just a few overs, the Australian pace attack will be eager to make further inroads and bring the match to a swift conclusion.
Cricket enthusiasts around the world will be glued to their screens, radios blaring with live commentary, as they follow the dramatic conclusion of this Women’s Ashes Test. The MCG, steeped in cricketing history, provides the perfect backdrop for what promises to be a thrilling finale to this enthralling contest between two of the sport’s greatest rivals.
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