Day 2 of the Women's Ashes Test match ended at an interesting juncture. Australia are still in the driver’s seat, but a sublime century from captain Heather Knight ensured that England are not completely out of the match yet. Along with Katherine Brunt’s five-wicket haul, the unbeaten ninth-wicket partnership between Knight and Sophie Ecclestone has been the highlight for England.
Ecclestone joined Knight on 166/8. At that stage England needed another 20 save the follow on. But Ecclestone hung on, batting with patience and determination, not only helping England avoid the follow-on but also allowing Knight reach her second Test century.
Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland picked up two wickets each, but none of the seven Australian bowlers managed to break the partnership. They would hope to wrap things up early in the morning. At this point they lead by 102, and a lead of around 80 may come handy. They will rely on their pacers – Darcie Brown, Perry and Sutherland – to utilise the early morning conditions.
Once that is done, Australia will look to accelerate and hope for a quick declaration, and even then a win seems unlikely amidst the predicted rains. For now, they will look for quick runs from their big hitters – Alyssa Healy, Perry, Meg Lanning, Ash Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath.
Australia will stand with a chance if they can get the last two England wickets early, and bat for about 60 overs to set England 250 in a full day that is likely to be hit by rain.
Fantasy Tips
- Knight should be a popular pick. She has continued to provide points with her superlative batting.
- Back Perry. Even if she does not get a wicket in the morning, she will come out to bat later. Also back the other Australian batters, particularly Lanning, Healy, Beth Mooney, and Rachael Haynes.
- The experienced Katherine Brunt, Anya Shrubsole and Nat Sciver may be key.
- Back Ecclestone to take wickets if Australia go for the slog.