Australia extended their Women’s Ashes lead over England as the hosts defended a modest total to seal a 21-run victory in a thrilling second one-day international in Melbourne.

After losing Sunday’s opener in Sydney, the tourists appeared to be in good shape to level the series at Junction Oval when a fine display in the field saw them bowl Australia all out for 180 in the 45th over of the hosts’ innings.

However, despite having been relatively well set at 68-2 after overcoming the early loss of their opening batters, England fell short as Amy Jones was left stranded on 47 when Heather Knight’s side were all out for 159 with 11 balls of their innings remaining.

The victory earns Australia another two points in the multi-format series and extends their advantage to 4-0.

It means England need to win at least three of the four remaining white-ball clashes to retain hope of clinching the Ashes heading in to the series-concluding Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from January 30.

More to follow…

Women’s Ashes 2025 schedule

All dates and times UK and Ireland

• First ODI: Saturday January 11 – North Sydney Oval – Australia won by four wickets
• Second ODI: Monday January 13 – Junction Oval, Melbourne – Australia won by 21 runs
• Third ODI: 11.05pm, Thursday January 16 – Ninja Stadium, Hobart
• First T20I: 8.40am, Monday January 20 – Sydney Cricket Ground
• Second T20I: 8.40am, Thursday January 23 – Manuka Oval, Canberra
• Third T20I: 8.10am, Saturday January 25 – Adelaide Oval
• Test: 3.30am, Thursday Jan 30-Sunday Feb 2 – MCG, Melbourne