In an exhilarating one-off Women's Ashes Test, Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry came agonizingly close to reaching a well-deserved century. Batting at number three, Perry showcased her skill and determination but fell just one run short of the milestone on the opening day of the match against England at Trent Bridge.
After the early dismissal of Phoebe Litchfield, Perry played a crucial role in stabilizing Australia's innings, forming a vital 119-run partnership for the third wicket with Beth Mooney. Their partnership provided the much-needed stability for the Australian side.
Following Mooney's departure, Perry found another reliable partner in Tahlia McGrath, and the duo dominated the afternoon session, consistently finding boundaries. Together, they added an impressive 119 runs before McGrath was dismissed by Sophie Ecclestone.
Unfortunately, rain interrupted play shortly after McGrath's dismissal, causing a temporary halt. When the game resumed, Australia lost two quick wickets, including Perry's dismissal.
Perry reached a score of 99, just one run away from her century. In an attempt to guide the ball down the gully region, she unintentionally hit it over the head of Natalie Sciver-Brunt, who took a remarkable catch to remove Perry from the crease.
Although Perry narrowly missed out on a century, she achieved a significant milestone in Test cricket. Ellyse Perry made history by becoming the first player to participate in 10 Women's Ashes matches, surpassing the previous record held by Charlotte Edwards, Alex Blackwell, and Katherine Brunt, all of whom played in nine Ashes Tests.
The Test match marks the beginning of the highly anticipated multi-format series, which will be followed by 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs. After a disappointing winless campaign in 2021-22, the hosts England are determined to reclaim the prestigious Ashes trophy from Australia. The stage is set for an intense battle as the teams compete for cricket's most prestigious rivalry.