January 17, 2025: Australia’s all-rounder Ash Gardner was the star of the show as she guided her team to a comprehensive 86-run victory over England in the third and final ODI at Hobart on Friday, completing a 3-0 clean sweep in the Women’s Ashes series. Gardner’s brilliant performance included her maiden ODI century, followed by a stunning catch in the field, cementing her place as the hero of the day.
With this win, Australia now holds a 6-0 lead in the points tally, putting them one step away from retaining the Ashes with three T20Is and a one-off Test still to come.
Gardner arrived at the crease with Australia struggling at 59/4, after early wickets had left them in a vulnerable position. She partnered with Beth Mooney, whose 50 off 64 balls also contributed to Australia’s recovery. Together, they rebuilt the innings, with Mooney becoming the fifth Aussie women’s player to reach 6,000 international runs. Gardner, however, took charge, accelerating her innings and reaching a well-deserved century off 102 balls, smashing eight fours and a six.
Australia posted a competitive total of 308/8 from their 50 overs, with Georgia Wareham providing the finishing touches with a quickfire 38* from just 12 balls, including five fours and two sixes.
In response, England got off to a steady start with Tammy Beaumont (54) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (61) leading the charge, but Australia’s bowlers applied the pressure. Megan Schutt (3/57) struck early, while Wareham (2/27) provided key breakthroughs in the middle overs.
Alana King (5/46) wrapped up England’s lower order, helping Australia bowl out the visitors for 222. The day ended with Gardner taking an exceptional catch at deep midwicket, sealing her status as the Player of the Match and potentially the Player of the Series, if her form continues.
With the Ashes well within their grasp, Australia heads into the T20I series with the momentum, while England faces a daunting task to reclaim the coveted trophy.
