The Women’s Ashes began on June 22 with an exciting one-off Test match between England and Australia in Nottingham. Both teams put up a strong fight, resulting in a draw at the end of Day 1. Ellyse Perry was the star performer for Australia, scoring an impressive 99 runs in 153 balls, while Sophie Ecclestone stood out for England with her exceptional bowling skills. Perry praised Ecclestone, who bowled the most overs (31 out of 85) and took three crucial wickets, including dismissing Jess Jonassen and skipper Alyssa Healy in the same over. Ecclestone’s economy rate was an impressive 2.29 per over, compared to the other bowlers’ rate of four runs per over. Perry, who has played alongside Ecclestone in the Women’s Big Bash League, had high praise for her English counterpart.
According to The West Australian, Ellyse Perry remarked that having only one main spinner in the bowling attack during a Test match is quite unusual. This is a testament to the exceptional skills of Sophie Ecclestone, who is widely regarded as the best spinner in the world. Despite this shift in the team’s strategy, Perry believes that it ultimately evened out the playing field. She also acknowledged that Ecclestone poses a significant challenge for all players.
