At a crucial moment during the 2nd T20I between Australia and England, Sophie Ecclestone she demonstrated her tactical acumen and her excellent ability to reject Beth Mooneywho was in hot form with 44 runs off 31 balls.
Sophie Ecclestone takes out Beth Mooney with tactical brilliance
On the fourth ball of the 8th over, Mooney, trying to maintain her attacking approach, brought down the foul early but Ecclestone read her intentions perfectly. The left-arm spinner adjusted his delivery smartly, flicking it wide down the leg side, making it almost impossible for Mooney to connect. Wicketkeeper Amy Jones showed lightning reflexes, collecting the ball cleanly from the half-volley and clearing the bails with one fluid movement to complete a superb header.
The dismissal not only broke Australia’s momentum but also highlighted Ecclestone’s ability to think on her feet under pressure. Her awareness and execution were instrumental in removing a dangerous shot, further cementing her reputation as one of the smartest bowlers in the game. This wicket left Australia at 66/2 and gave England a major lead at a crucial juncture in the match.
Here’s the video:
Sophie Ecclestone gets the plan right and Beth Mooney drops to 44 #Ashes pic.twitter.com/RrCqDn4HCK
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 23, 2025
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Australia set a challenging target for England in the 2nd T20I
Australia put a having a total of 185/5 in their 20 overs against England in the second T20I at Manuka Oval, Canberra. The innings was anchored by the captain Tahlia McGrathwho remained unbeaten on 48 off 35 balls, and the explosive Grace Harriswho smashed 35 off just 17 deliveries at a staggering strike rate of 205.88.
Beth Mooney got off to a good start with 44 runs off 31 balls, showing her consistency and aggression. However, her dismissal, brilliantly orchestrated by Ecclestone, marked a turning point as England momentarily slowed Australia’s scoring rate. Ecclestone and Charlie Dean were the standout bowlers for England, claiming a wicket each and maintaining decent economies.
Despite the first stumbles, including a failure from Ellyse Perrythe resurgence of Australia’s middle order led by McGrath and Harris ensured a competitive set. England’s bowlers struggled to contain the runs in the death overs, conceding 63 runs in the last five overs. The total of 185/5 sets up a tough chase for England, who will need a disciplined performance to stay alive in the series.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
