England’s hopes of mounting an Ashes fightback were dashed in devastating style as Australia powered their way to a 57-run victory in the first T20 international to retain the trophy.
Heather Knight’s side had to win at the Sydney Cricket Ground after losing all three one-day internationals, but were well beaten on a day when their hopes went up in smoke after the hosts took an unassailable 8-0 lead in the series.
Opener Beth Mooney had blasted a 51-ball 75 as Australia made 198 for seven off their allotted overs, but the tourists lost openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge inside the opening seven balls and – despite a thrilling 59 from Sophia Dunkley – fell well short.
