AUS vs ENG [WATCH]: Ryana MacDonald-Gay cleans up Annabel Sutherland on Day 2 of pink-ball Test | Women’s Ashes 2025

Annabel Sutherland’s valiant innings came to an unfortunate end when Ryana MacDonald-Gay struck with a crucial breakthrough on Day 2 of the Women’s Ashes 2025 between Australia and England.

Annabel Sutherland falls to McDonald-Gay in the Women’s Ashes 2025

On the fourth ball of the 90th over, Sutherland, who had been in sublime form, went for a drive on a delivery from McDonald-Gay that nipped back off the seam. The lack of footwork in her shot left her off-stump exposed, and the ball pegged it back, sending her back to the pavilion for a well-made 163. Despite the dismissal, Sutherland’s knock was one of immense grit, leaving the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in awe of her match-seizing effort.

McDonald-Gay’s celebration was one of relief and satisfaction, as her persistence finally paid off with the pivotal wicket. With Sutherland’s departure, Australia score stood at 324/4, a crucial point in the match as both sides were aware of the momentum shift. Sutherland had looked comfortable through much of her innings, accumulating runs with authority, but this moment of fatigue saw her undone by a simple yet effective delivery.

Here’s the video:

A standing ovation for Annabel Sutherland from the MCG as her glorious knock comes to an end on 163 #Ashes pic.twitter.com/vRUm2K37CQ

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 31, 2025

Also READ: AUS vs ENG: Fans erupt as Annabel Sutherland hits a remarkable century on Day 2 of Pink-Ball Test | Women’s Ashes 2025

Australia takes charge with Sutherland’s commanding century

Australia dominated proceedings on Day 2 of the only Test at the MCG, extending their lead to 177 runs after England’s first innings ended at 170 all out. England struggled against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack, with Alana King (4/45) and Kim Garth (2/13) leading the way. Nat Sciver-Brunt (51 off 129) was the lone bright spot for England, but lack of support from the other batters resulted in a below-par total.

In response, Australia put on a strong batting display, led by an outstanding innings from Sutherland (163 off 258 balls). She anchored the innings brilliantly, forming key partnerships with Phoebe Litchfield (45) and Beth Mooney (68 off 96 balls). Sutherland reached her 150 in 249 balls, playing with authority against England’s bowlers, while Mooney continued her fluent batting at the other end.

England’s bowlers toil as Australia strengthens grip

Despite early breakthroughs from Lauren Bell (2/82) and MacDonald-Gay (1/64), England’s bowlers struggled to control the run flow. Sophie Ecclestone (1/102 in 30 overs) found some turn but couldn’t break partnerships at crucial moments. Australia’s current score of 347/4 puts them in a commanding position heading into the final sessions of Day 2.

With a first-innings lead of 177 so far, Australia will look to push further ahead before considering a declaration. England will need early wickets to stay in the contest, while Australia will aim to build an unassailable lead. The Test remains firmly in the hosts’ hands, with England needing a strong comeback to avoid a one-sided result.

Also Watch: Phoebe Litchfield takes a remarkable catch to dismiss Danni Wyatt-Hodge during the Pink-Ball Test