The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as England Women take on Australia Women in the third and final T20I match at Lord's on July 8, Saturday. With the women's Ashes series locked at 1-1, this encounter promises to be a nail-biting decider, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already intense rivalry.
After Australia's triumph in the one-off Test matches and England's comeback win in the second T20I, both teams will be eager to claim the bragging rights.
In their recent encounters, Australia Women have had the upper hand against England Women, winning three matches compared to England's none. The two matches have ended in a draw.
One match ended without a result. However, it's crucial to note that records do not always determine the outcome of a match, especially when these two cricket powerhouses meet. The top bookmakers have women's Ashes odds on their platforms.
England Women have shown their resilience and depth throughout the series. The team will heavily rely on the explosive batting prowess of players like Sophia Dunkley, Danielle Wyatt, and skipper Heather Knight. The middle-order duo of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Alice Capsey will be pivotal in stabilizing the innings, while Amy Jones will handle the wicketkeeping duties.
The bowling attack, led by Sophie Ecclestone and Sarah Glenn, supported by Danielle Gibson, Freya Davies, and Lauren Bell, possesses the ability to trouble the Australian batters.
Sophie Ecclestone will be key for England in this match as well. The left-arm spinner kept the scoring rate in check and also scalped two crucial wickets in the last match.
Predicted Lineup: Sophia Dunkley, Danielle Wyatt, Alice Capsey, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight (c), Amy Jones (wk), Danielle Gibson, Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, Freya Davies, Lauren Bell
The Australian Women's team boasts an exceptional lineup, capable of dominating any opposition. The opening pair of Beth Mooney and Alyssa Healy will look to provide a solid foundation. Tahlia McGrath, Ashleigh Gardner, and Ellyse Perry form a formidable middle order, known for their aggressive strokeplay.
Grace Harris, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, and Jess Jonassen will bolster the batting and bowling departments, while the pace duo of Megan Schutt and Darcie Brown will aim to rattle the English batting lineup.
Beth Mooney is in the form of her life and Australia will be once again dependent on her to give a good start. They are likely to remain unchanged despite losing the last match.
Predicted Lineup: Beth Mooney, Alyssa Healy (c & wk), Tahlia McGrath, Ashleigh Gardner, Ellyse Perry, Grace Harris, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Jess Jonassen, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown
This third T20I encounter promises to be a battle of equals. Both teams possess exceptional talent and have showcased their capabilities throughout the series.
England's comeback victory in the second T20I will give them a boost, but Australia's overall dominance cannot be overlooked.
The match is likely to be a closely fought contest, with each team striving to outshine the other. However, considering their recent form and the home advantage, England Women might have a slight edge in this encounter.