The much-anticipated multi-format Women's Ashes series between England and Australia is set to commence on Saturday, 11 January at 23:30 GMT with the first of three one-day internationals. This series, which will also feature three T20s and a four-day Test, promises to be a thrilling contest between two cricketing powerhouses. Despite their recent T20 World Cup exit, Australia is not expected to be weakened, according to England batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
Australia, led by Alyssa Healy, faced disappointment in October when South Africa knocked them out in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup. However, Healy's side remains formidable, having previously held both white-ball World Cups, the Women's Ashes, and the Commonwealth Games. Wyatt-Hodge remains confident in Australia's strength, stating that the team possesses a "quality squad" capable of delivering match-winning performances.
"No, not at all. They have a quality squad." – Danni Wyatt-Hodge
England's journey to this series has also been marred by setbacks. They were eliminated from the T20 World Cup after a heavy six-wicket defeat by the West Indies during the group stages. Criticism followed for their lackluster performance, with head coach Jon Lewis commenting that his side "drifted off" during the game. England captain Heather Knight missed crucial moments of the match due to a calf injury.
In contrast, Australia comes into the Ashes with recent victories under their belt, having secured one-day series wins against India and T20 World Cup champions New Zealand in December. While Healy has overcome her injury to join the squad, Sophie Molineux will sit out due to knee surgery.
"Anyone in their squad that comes in performs. Anyone in their line-up is capable of match-winning performances." – Danni Wyatt-Hodge
The series promises intense competition and will be covered extensively with ball-by-ball radio commentary on BBC Sounds, along with live text updates and video highlights available on the BBC Sport website and app. England, who last won the series in 2014, will look to improve upon their performance and challenge an Australian side that retained the Ashes in 2023 with an 8-8 draw.
Danni Wyatt-Hodge anticipates a nervy start but believes composure will be key to success in the series opener.
"It's going to be a matter of who stays the calmest for sure." – Danni Wyatt-Hodge
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