Australia might have retained the Ashes, but with the World Cup 28 days away, there is still lots to play for in the series. Australia lead the multi-format series 8-4. Even if England win the last two ODIs, they can at most square the series, in which case Australia will retain the trophy. England had done the same in 2017/18, and will like to do an encore to regain confidence.
Australia may try a few changes while ensuring balance. Beth Mooney, who just recovered from a broken jaw to score 73 in the first ODI, may be rested. Nicola Caray or Annabel Sutherland can replace her, adding a bowling option. The Australian all-rounders have made a difference makers in this series. Tahlia McGrath, Ash Gardner, and Alana King have contributed regularly with both bat and ball.
The one all-rounder desperately in search of form is Ellyse Perry. Dropped for the T20Is, she had a moderate Test match. She fell first ball in the first ODI, and while her five overs were tight, she finished wicketless. Australia will hope for Perry to get some form back in the next two ODIs to set herself right for the World Cup.
England had controlled the Australian batting well in the first ODI, but their batting was not up to the mark. Darcy Brown’s four-wicket haul pushed them back at the start. Brown, Jesse Jonassen and McGrath kept picking up wickets at regular intervals.
Australia will also be happy with Megan Schutt’s return after Covid-19. She picked up two wickets the other day. For England, Katherine Brunt and Kate Cross picked up three wickets each, and will be in focus.
Likely XIs
Australia: Rachael Haynes, Alyssa Healy (wk), Meg Lanning (c), Ellyse Perry, Nicola Caray, Tahlia McGrath, Ash Gardner, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown.
England: Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Heather Knight (c), Nat Sciver, Amy Jones (wk), Danni Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, Katherine Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, Anya Shrubsole, Kate Cross.
Fantasy Tips
- The Junction Oval typically assists batters. Pick the likes of Lanning, Healy, Knight, and Beaumont.
- Among all-rounders, pick McGrath and Sciver.
- Brown, King, Brunt and Cross, the in-form bowlers, are must-haves.
Fantasy XI
Alyssa Healy; Meg Lanning, Heather Knight (c), Rachael Haynes; Nat Sciver, Tahlia McGrath, Ash Gardner (vc), Alana King, Darcie Brown, Katherine Brunt, Kate Cross.