Magnificent seven for World Cup winning Aussie women at Lords.England strangled in final shoot-out. BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE. (eLanka Sports Editor)
Australia’s women wiped away disappointing memories of the Soccer World Cup elimination with a comprehensive T20 World Cup triumph over arch rival England at Lords to make it seven in the trophy cabinet.
Sophie Molineux led from the front as the beautifully blended Aussies went through the tournament undefeated to prove worthy champions for a record seventh time.
Beating England at home made victory sweeter as Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Phoebe Litchfield and the rest made useful contributions throughout the tournament to keep their aspirations on track. It was a terrific team effort that saw veteran Perry in great form with the bat as she ages like a fine wine.
Beth Mooney carried away the Player-of-the-series award for her consistency with the bat.
The seventh triumph in this format puts the men’s version quite a contrast with just a single success so far.
However, Australia’s men have had more success in the Test and one-day formats.
” It’s been an amazing ride and I have thoroughly enjoyed it”, said a triumphant Australian skipper Molineux before the game. ” We’ve played some really good cricket and I think that affect the space that we’re in as a group, she said.
Batting first England staggered to 4 for 70 in 10.5 overs before England skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt, 58 off 53 not out and Freya Kemp, 44 off 28 balls performed a rescue act as they reeled off an unbroken stand of 80 runs off 9.1 overs to take them to respectability.
Australia began the chase losing 1 for 17 before Beth Mooney 64 off 49 balls, and Phoebe Litchfield 48 off 35 deliveries raced to a 100 run stand for the fourth wicket.
When Mooney departed in the 16th over at 140, the stage was set for Ellyse Perry and Ashley Gardner to put the finishing touches to a sensational Australian victory.
Elated Australian fans celebrated with overflowing euphoria following a flawless campaign the will add to memories of their previous success.
