Australian All rounder Ellyse Perry became seventh women cricketer to hit a double century in test cricket in the Women”s Ashes Test at North Sydney Oval. Perry smashed 213* as Australia took a first-innings lead of 168 after bowling out England for 280 in first innings.
Winning the toss and batting first England were bowled out for 280. Tammy Beaumont (70) and Heather Knight (62) were the top scorers. The rest of the England batting line-up failed to contribute significantly. Wickets were shared pretty much evenly by all Australian bowlers.
However, England made a strong comeback in the game. When skipper Rachel Haynes departed at 168/5, Australia was in a spot of bother. Then Alyssa Healy joined Perry at the crease and the duo shared a hundred run partnership. Alyssa scored a crucial 45. After her departure, Tahila McGrath along with Perry put on another 103. In both of these partnerships, Perry held one end like a rock.
However, Perry got to her double hundred in a dramatic way. When she was on 194 she lofted one in the air. She believed it was a six and started to celebrate. However, the third umpire gave that as a 4. Next over she drove through the covers to reach the milestone. Australia declared at 448/9. England, in response, are 40/0 at end of day 3, trailing by 128. Unless something dramatic happens match is heading towards a draw.
Australia at the moment leads the point-based multi-format series 4-2. There are 3 T20 internationals to follow at the end of this 4-day test match. The 3 match ODI series was won by Australia 2-1. In the point-based system, 2 points are granted for each win. The 3 T20 internationals will be played on November 17, 19 and 21 at North Sydney Oval (first 2) and Canberra (last T20I).
Alyssa Healy, who was Perry”s partner in crime in their 100-run stand quoted, “England bowled really well yesterday but fortunately Ellyse did brilliantly. It was very special for me to be there, I was fist pumping more than her when we were running down the wicket! She went up another gear when we needed and full credit to her. She is a very special player. She was very embarrassed about [celebrating early] but it”s not often you get to celebrate a double century, so why not do it twice!”
Talking about her own effort Perry said, “That”s the second most embarrassing thing I”ve done in this match (premature celebration), after taking that catch after the ball hit me – the crowd tricked me as they were cheering as though it went for six. Their support was just incredible.”
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England fast bowler Anya Shrubsole complimented Perry for her effort “We came up against someone who played sublime innings. I don”t remember her giving a chance. She”s obviously got a really good technique and she batted brilliantly. We really stuck at it, but sometimes you have to hold your hands up and say “well batted”.”
– by Atharva Apte
