The highly anticipated one-off Pink-Ball Test between Australia and England in the Women’s Ashes 2025 got underway at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Pink-Ball Test marks a crucial moment in the Women’s Ashes series, with both teams looking to stamp their authority in the longest format.
With the pink ball expected to assist the seamers under lights, Australia won the toss and opted to field first, aiming to make early inroads into England’s batting lineup. Their decision proved to be spot on, as the visitors found themselves in trouble early on, losing their star opener Maia Bouchier in just the first over.
Beth Mooney’s stunning catch removes Maia Bouchier
Australia didn’t take long to strike, courtesy of a brilliant piece of wicketkeeping by Beth Mooney. On just the fourth ball of the opening over, Kim Garth bowled a delivery in the corridor of uncertainty that straightened slightly after pitching. The movement put Bouchier in an awkward position, forcing her to play at it. The ball took the outside edge of her bat, flying low towards the right of the wicketkeeper. Mooney, showcasing excellent footwork and quick reflexes, dived to her right and grabbed a stunning catch, just inches above the ground with both hands.
The dismissal was a massive breakthrough for Australia, as Bouchier’s ability to counterattack in the early overs could have put England on the front foot. Instead, her departure left the visitors vulnerable, and the Australian bowlers capitalized on the momentum.
Here is the video:
Edged and gone!
Wicket for Kim Garth in the first over of the Test #Ashes pic.twitter.com/g5x1s6RNzJ
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 30, 2025
Also READ: AU-W vs EN-W: Melbourne Weather Forecast for the Pink-Ball Test | Women’s Ashes 2025
England in trouble after early blows
Following Bouchier’s early dismissal, England’s batters struggled to settle against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack. The hosts maintained tight lines and extracted movement from the pink ball, making scoring difficult. By the end of 15 overs, England found themselves reeling at 47/3, with their top order failing to weather the storm.
Also READ: Women’s Ashes 2025: Here’s why Kate Cross not playing the AUS vs ENG pink-ball Test
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
