Australia started the multi-format Women’s Ashes series with a 67-ball victory, but it was far from an effortless win. Despite a dominant display with both bat and ball, they were kept in check by a resilient England side that showcased glimpses of their potential. With the first game behind them, both teams now move to Melbourne’s Junction Oval for the second ODI. The pitch promises better batting conditions, raising expectations for a high-scoring contest on Tuesday.
Match Details
Match | Australia Women vs England Women, 2nd ODI |
---|---|
Date | Tuesday, January 14, 2025 |
Time | 10:00 AM (Local Time) |
Venue | Junction Oval, Melbourne |
Weather | Clear skies, temperature around 28°C |
Team Preview
Australia Women
Australia remains the dominant force in women’s cricket, particularly in the ODI format. Their performance in Sydney was led by Ashleigh Gardner, who excelled with both bat and ball, supported by Alyssa Healy’s composed innings of 70. The bowling unit showed depth with contributions from Kim Garth, Annabel Sutherland, and Alana King, making it tough for the English batters.
Megan Schutt, a key bowler for Australia, will aim to make an impact in Melbourne after a quiet game in Sydney. With a strong batting lineup and reliable bowlers, Australia looks well-balanced and capable of doubling their lead in the series.
England Women
England’s fightback in Sydney was spearheaded by captain Heather Knight, who crossed the 4000-run milestone in ODIs, and spinner Sophie Ecclestone, who was their standout bowler. Despite a spirited performance, the team fell short due to the inability of batters like Danielle Wyatt and Amy Jones to convert starts into big scores.
England’s bowling, while disciplined, struggled to contain Australia’s deep batting order. For them to level the series, the supporting cast must step up alongside Ecclestone, and their batters must capitalize on the better batting conditions in Melbourne.
Fantasy Team XI
Player | Team | Role |
---|---|---|
Alyssa Healy (C) | Australia Women | Wicketkeeper |
Heather Knight (VC) | England Women | Batter |
Ellyse Perry | Australia Women | All-rounder |
Beth Mooney | Australia Women | Batter |
Danielle Wyatt | England Women | Batter |
Ashleigh Gardner | Australia Women | All-rounder |
Nat Sciver-Brunt | England Women | All-rounder |
Sophie Ecclestone | England Women | Bowler |
Megan Schutt | Australia Women | Bowler |
Alana King | Australia Women | Bowler |
Lauren Filer | England Women | Bowler |
Pitch Report
The Junction Oval is known for offering assistance to spinners while maintaining fair conditions for batters. Teams batting first should aim for a total above 260, as the pitch is expected to remain consistent throughout the game. The warm weather will favor batting-friendly conditions, but bowlers who can vary their pace and utilize spin effectively may have the edge.
Winning Prediction
Australia Women have the momentum from their first win and a balanced team capable of adapting to different conditions. England Women, while showing flashes of brilliance, need collective performances to challenge Australia. A close contest is on the cards, but Australia Women are favorites to secure another victory.
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App