Australia Women underlined their dominance in the ODI format with a commanding 84-run victory over England Women in the third ODI, completing a comprehensive 3–0 series clean sweep. Batting first, Australia posted a formidable 289/6, a total that once again proved beyond England’s reach as the visitors failed to mount a sustained challenge in the chase.
The match followed a familiar script seen throughout the series. Australia were measured early, weathered England’s new-ball pressure, and then steadily accelerated through the middle overs. Their batting depth and clarity of roles stood out, with the top order laying a solid platform and the middle order capitalising expertly. Rather than relying on one explosive partnership, Australia built in phases, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking while setting up a late surge.
Australia’s innings was defined by composure and adaptability. When England attempted to slow the run rate with tight lines and changes of pace, Australian batters rotated strike intelligently and waited for scoring opportunities. The final ten overs yielded crucial momentum, pushing the total close to 290 — a psychologically significant mark that immediately put England on the back foot.
England’s response never truly gathered momentum. While there were brief moments of resistance, Australia’s bowlers applied relentless pressure, refusing to allow partnerships to develop. The disciplined bowling effort was backed by sharp fielding, which further choked England’s scoring options and forced risky shots.
Australia’s bowling unit once again showcased its balance. Seamers exploited early movement before spinners tightened the screws through the middle overs, varying pace and trajectory to disrupt England’s rhythm. Regular wickets ensured the required run rate continued to climb, leaving England with too much to do in the latter stages of the chase.
From England’s perspective, the series will raise serious questions. Despite flashes of individual talent, they struggled to match Australia’s consistency, both tactically and mentally. Their batting often lacked the decisiveness needed against a well-drilled attack, while the bowling unit found it difficult to contain Australia’s deep lineup once momentum swung.
The clean sweep highlights the gap that currently exists between the two sides in ODI cricket. Australia’s strength lies not just in star players, but in a system that consistently delivers under pressure. Every player understands their role, whether it’s anchoring an innings, accelerating at the death, or maintaining control with the ball.
For Australia, the series victory reinforces their status as the benchmark in women’s ODI cricket. Their ability to dominate across all three matches sends a strong message to rivals ahead of upcoming global tournaments. The performances also underline their depth, with contributions spread across the squad rather than relying on isolated brilliance.
England, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly. The margin of defeat in the final ODI reflects broader issues exposed throughout the series — from game management to execution under pressure. Closing the gap will require honest assessment and adjustments, particularly against top-tier opposition.
Ultimately, the third ODI was a fitting summary of the series: Australia setting the standard, England chasing the game, and the gulf between the sides clearly visible on the scoreboard.
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