England taking ‘real confidence’ into Ashes ODIs after Test performance

The England captain made a brilliant century in the solitary Test match

Heather Knight reckons England can take “real confidence” from their display in the only Test of the women’s Ashes as they head into the must-win one-day internationals.

The tourists were set a target of 257 from 48 overs to snatch victory on the fourth and final day at the Manuka Oval and looked on course when they were left needing 45 runs off the final 60 balls with seven wickets in hand.

Meg Lanning’s Australia fought back and became favourites when England fell to 244 for nine, but Kate Cross and Sophie Ecclestone managed to see out the final 13 balls to secure a draw.

England captain Knight believes the thrilling conclusion is great for the sport.

“When you have games like that, it’s great for the game all round, not just for Test cricket but for the women’s game in general,” the 31-year-old said.

The draw means Australia hold a 6-4 lead heading into the final three ODIs of the multi-format series, having won the opening T20 before two subsequent washouts.

With an ODI victory worth two points, England need to win all three matches to make sure of regaining the Ashes and Knight believes her side can feed off the battling spirit shown in the red-ball game.

Video: Keeping 'brilliant' Joe Root quiet is big job for Australia, says Justin Langer (Evening Standard)

Novak Djokovic set to be deported from Australia after losing visa appeal

Ashes Fifth Test Review- Australia Seal 4-0 Series Win

Pep Guardiola: Title race is not done despite Manchester City’s win over Chelsea

Rangnick wants Henderson to stay at Old Trafford

Premier League match preview: Man City v Chelsea

Man City hit by new Covid cases, says Guardiola

Ashes Fifth Test Day 1 Highlights: